Albuquerque, NM Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- IDO 14-16-5-7(F)
- Max Height
- Per Table 5-7-1 unless City Engineer approves higher
- Terracing Trigger
- Over 6 ft - max 3 tiers
- Terrace Width
- At least 4 ft, max slope 1:3
Summary
Albuquerque retaining walls follow the same maximum heights as other walls unless the City Engineer approves a higher wall. Retaining walls over 6 feet must be terraced to no more than 3 tiers, with a planted 4-foot terrace between tiers and footings kept out of the public right-of-way.
5-7(F) RETAINING WALL STANDARDS. 5-7(F)(1) Maximum Height. (a) Retaining walls shall have a maximum height as specified in 14-16-5-7(D) (Maximum Wall Height) unless a higher wall is approved by the City Engineer as necessary on a particular lot. (b) Retaining walls higher than 6 feet tall shall be terraced to minimize visual impacts on residents, neighboring properties, and the public realm. Terracing shall be limited to 3 tiers. 5-7(F)(2) Terracing. (a) A terrace at least 4 feet wide, with a maximum slope of 1:3 (rise:run), shall be provided between each tier to create pockets for landscaping. (b) Terraces between retaining wall tiers shall be vegetated with permanent landscaping to screen retaining walls and provide visual interest unless soil conditions are determined by a licensed engineer to be unsuitable due to geologic hazards. 5-7(F)(3) Setback. Retaining walls must be set back so that the underground footing does not encroach on any abutting public right-of-way.
Full Breakdown
IDO Section 14-16-5-7(F) governs retaining walls. Their maximum height is set by 14-16-5-7(D) (the Table 5-7-1 standards) unless a higher wall is approved by the City Engineer as necessary on a particular lot. A retaining wall higher than 6 feet must be terraced to minimize visual impacts on residents, neighboring properties, and the public realm, with terracing limited to 3 tiers. A terrace at least 4 feet wide with a maximum slope of 1:3 (rise:run) must separate each tier to create landscaping pockets, and those terraces must be vegetated with permanent landscaping unless a licensed engineer determines the soil unsuitable due to geologic hazards. Retaining walls must be set back so the underground footing does not encroach on any abutting public right-of-way. Walls higher than 6 feet also require a permit from the Building Safety Division.
Violations & Fines
Violations are subject to ROA 1994 1-1-99 (General Penalty): up to a $500 fine, up to 90 days imprisonment, or both, with each day a separate offense (IDO 14-16-6-9(D)). Non-compliant tall walls may require engineering review, redesign/terracing, or removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to terrace a tall retaining wall in Albuquerque?
Can a retaining wall footing extend under the sidewalk?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Albuquerque
Compare Albuquerque to another location·View the New Mexico fence regulations overview
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