Retaining Walls: Fresno vs Selma

Retaining walls in Fresno require a building permit when they are 4 feet or taller measured from bottom of footing to top, or at any height when they support a surcharge load (slope, driveway, structure). Engineered plans stamped by a California licensed engineer are required for walls over 4 feet.

Retaining walls in Selma require a building permit when they exceed 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, as established by the California Building Code Section 105.2. This height threshold determines whether the wall requires engineered plans and structural review by the Selma Building Division, which is part of the Community Development Department. Retaining walls that support a surcharge, such as a driveway, building foundation, swimming pool, or sloped embankment above the wall, may require permits regardless of height because the additional loading creates structural demands beyond those of a simple earth-retaining wall. The Selma Building Division reviews retaining wall plans for structural adequacy, proper drainage provisions, and compliance with setback requirements for the applicable zoning district. Adequate drainage behind retaining walls is critical in Selma's Central Valley climate, where winter rains and irrigation runoff can create significant hydrostatic pressure against wall structures. Retaining walls that also function as boundary fences between properties are subject to the combined height limitations of SMC 11-20-14, meaning the total height of the retaining wall plus any fence on top is measured from the lower grade level and must comply with the applicable maximum for that location on the property.