Retaining Walls: Dearborn vs Livonia
How do retaining walls rules compare between Dearborn, MI and Livonia, MI?
Dearborn has fewer restrictions than Livonia.
Dearborn, MI
Wayne County
Retaining walls in Dearborn under 4 feet tall measured from bottom of footing require no permit. Walls 4 feet or taller require a building permit with engineered plans per Michigan Residential Code.
View full Dearborn rules →Livonia, MI
Wayne County
Retaining walls over 4 feet tall in Livonia require an engineered design and building permit, with drainage and surcharge load analysis verified before construction.
View full Livonia rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dearborn | Livonia |
|---|---|---|
| Permit threshold | 4 feet or with surcharge | Over 4 feet tall |
| Engineer required | Over 4 feet | - |
| Code | Michigan Residential Code | - |
| Flood zone review | Required near Rouge River | - |
| Fence-on-wall | Combined height counts | - |
| Engineering | - | MI licensed PE seal required |
| Code reference | - | Michigan Residential Code |
| Frost depth | - | 42 inches typical |
| Drainage | - | Weep holes or drain tile required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dearborn FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 3-foot garden wall?
Not if it does not support a surcharge like a driveway. Setbacks still apply.
Can I build it myself?
Homeowners can for their own residence. Walls over 4 feet need engineered plans regardless of who builds them.
Livonia FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 3-foot landscape wall?
Generally no, as long as it does not support a driveway or other surcharge, but confirm setback compliance with the Inspection Department.
Who can design my retaining wall?
Walls over 4 feet or with surcharge loads must be designed by a Michigan licensed professional engineer.
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