Retaining Walls: Rialto vs San Bernardino
How do retaining walls rules compare between Rialto, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Rialto and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
Rialto, CA
San Bernardino County
Retaining walls in Rialto are governed by California Building Code §105.2 (adopted via Rialto Code Title 15) and zoning standards in §18.61.170. Any retaining wall over 4 feet measured from bottom of footing to top of wall, or any wall supporting a surcharge, requires a building permit.
View full Rialto rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
Retaining walls over four feet from the bottom of the footing, or any wall supporting a surcharge, require a building permit and engineered plans under the California Building Code.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rialto | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Threshold | Over 4 ft (footing to top) or any wall with surcharge | Over 4 feet or with surcharge |
| Code Authority | CBC §105.2 (CCR Title 24) via Rialto Code Title 15 | - |
| Zoning | Rialto Code §18.61.170 height standards | - |
| Building & Safety | 150 S Palm Ave; 909-820-2505 | - |
| Boundary Walls | Cal. Civ. Code §841 cost-sharing applies | - |
| Engineer | - | Licensed CA engineer stamp |
| Seismic Concern | - | Near San Andreas and San Jacinto faults |
| Building and Safety | - | 909-384-5065 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rialto FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 3-foot retaining wall in Rialto?
Generally no, if it does not support a surcharge (vehicle load or sloped soil). California Building Code §105.2 exempts walls 4 feet or less without surcharge.
What if my retaining wall holds up a driveway?
Any retaining wall supporting a surcharge (including a driveway or parked vehicle load) requires a building permit per CBC §105.2, regardless of height. Contact Rialto Building & Safety at 909-820-2505.
San Bernardino FAQ
Do I need an engineer for a three-foot wall?
Generally no if it is less than four feet from the footing and carries no surcharge; taller or loaded walls require engineered plans.
What is a surcharge?
Any load above the wall such as a sloped yard, driveway, or structure that adds pressure; walls with a surcharge need a permit regardless of height.
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