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🧱 Fence Regulations/Retaining Walls

Retaining Walls: Glendale vs Santa Monica

How do retaining walls rules compare between Glendale, CA and Santa Monica, CA?

Glendale and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.

Glendale, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Retaining walls in Glendale are limited to 5 ft exposed height. Maximum 3 successive walls at least 5 ft apart with slopes between not exceeding 2:1, and combined height cannot exceed 10 ft. Building permit required for walls 4+ ft.

View full Glendale rules β†’

Santa Monica, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

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 β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactGlendaleSanta Monica
Max Exposed Height5 feet per wall-
Successive WallsMax 3, 5 ft apart minimum-
Combined Height10 feet maximum-
Permit RequiredRetaining walls 4+ ft-
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.

Glendale FAQ

Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?

In Glendale, 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 Glendale 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 Glendale and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.

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