Retaining Walls: Martinez vs San Ramon
How do retaining walls rules compare between Martinez, CA and San Ramon, CA?
Martinez and San Ramon have similar restriction levels.
Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Retaining walls up to 3 feet (measured footing to top) are exempt from building permits in unincorporated Contra Costa County. Combined with a fence, the total height may not exceed 7 feet, and the wall portion may not exceed 3 feet.
View full Martinez rules →San Ramon, CA
Contra Costa County
Retaining walls in San Ramon require a building permit if over 4 feet in height measured from bottom of footing to top, or if supporting a surcharge load. Engineered plans are required for taller walls. Given San Ramon's hillside terrain in Canyon Lakes, Bollinger Canyon, and Crow Canyon areas, drainage and geotechnical review are often required.
View full San Ramon rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Martinez | San Ramon |
|---|---|---|
| Retaining wall exemption | Up to 3 feet | - |
| Combined fence + wall | 7 feet total, wall ≤ 3 ft | - |
| Code Section | Ord. Code 72-6.202 | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Martinez FAQ
Can I stack a fence on top of a 3-foot retaining wall?
Yes, as long as the combined height of the wall and fence does not exceed 7 feet and the wall portion stays at or under 3 feet. This combined structure may be placed within required yard setbacks without planning approval.
When does a retaining wall need an engineered permit?
Whenever it exceeds 3 feet from footing to top, supports a surcharge (such as a driveway or sloped backfill steeper than 1:2), or impounds Class I, II, or III-a liquids.
San Ramon FAQ
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