Retaining Walls: Burbank vs Santa Monica
How do retaining walls rules compare between Burbank, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Burbank and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
Retaining walls under 4 ft (bottom of footing to top) are permit-exempt unless supporting a surcharge. Front yard setback allows max 4 ft combined fence/retaining wall height. Only two retaining walls per front yard, min 8 ft apart (6 ft with Director approval). All downslope walls must be screened with vegetation.
View full Burbank rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Retaining walls in Santa Monica over 4 ft in Seismic Design Category D, E, or F cannot be constructed of wood. Fence height on top of retaining walls is measured from lowest grade within 3-ft radius. Engineering required for significant walls.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Exempt | Under 4 ft, no surcharge | - |
| Front Yard Max | 4 ft combined wall + fence | - |
| Max Count | 2 retaining walls in front yard | - |
| Spacing | Min 8 ft apart (6 ft with approval) | - |
| Screening | Vegetation required on downslope face | - |
| Wood Prohibited | - | SDC D/E/F over 4 ft |
| Height Measurement | - | From lowest grade within 3 ft |
| Engineering | - | Required for significant walls |
| Seismic | - | AWPA U1 treatment required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?
In Burbank, walls over 4 feet typically require a building permit and engineered plans. Shorter walls may be exempt.
How close to the property line can I build a retaining wall?
Setback requirements vary. Check Burbank zoning code for specific distances from property lines.
Santa Monica FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?
In Santa Monica, walls over 4 feet typically require a building permit and engineered plans. Shorter walls may be exempt.
How close to the property line can I build a retaining wall?
Setback requirements vary. Check Santa Monica zoning code for specific distances from property lines.
Compare other topics
See how Burbank and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
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