Retaining Walls: Burbank vs Torrance
How do retaining walls rules compare between Burbank, CA and Torrance, CA?
Burbank and Torrance 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 →Torrance, CA
Los Angeles County
Retaining walls 4 feet or less from footing to top are generally exempt from building permits unless supporting a surcharge. Seismic requirements restrict materials.
View full Torrance rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Torrance |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Exempt | Under 4 ft, no surcharge | Under 4 ft with 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 | - |
| Over 4 ft | - | Building permit required |
| Seismic Zone D-F | - | No wood or interlocking block |
| Engineering | - | May require structural plans |
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.
Torrance FAQ
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?
In Torrance, 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 Torrance zoning code for specific distances from property lines.
Compare other topics
See how Burbank and Torrance compare on other ordinance categories.
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