Sacramento County, CA Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)

Sacramento County's Zoning Code addresses retaining walls mainly where they combine with fences. Section 5.2.5.B.4 provides that interior-yard fences shall not exceed 7 feet and may be located on a retaining wall not to exceed four feet in height. That 4-foot allowance is for the retaining wall portion under the fence; combinations exceeding the standards may need additional approval such as a Minor Use Permit or Special Development Permit (Sections 5.2.5.A.10 and 5.2.5.B.1.a.vi). Separately from zoning, the structural side of a retaining wall is governed by the California Building Code as adopted by the County. Under the statewide building permit thresholds, a retaining wall that is not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall generally does not require a building permit, unless it supports a surcharge or impounds flammable liquids; taller walls require a permit and engineered design. Because retaining walls affect drainage and can shift soil onto a neighbor, the County recommends engineered plans for taller walls and confirming both zoning and building requirements. Confirm height measurement and permit triggers with Sacramento County Building Permits before construction.