Retaining walls up to 4 feet in height (measured from bottom of footing to top of wall) without surcharge typically do not require a building permit in Antioch. Walls taller than 4 feet, or supporting a surcharge (driveway, pool, slope), require engineered plans and a permit.
Retaining wall regulations follow California Building Code standards adopted by Antioch. Retaining walls 4 feet or less in height, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, without a surcharge load, are generally exempt from building permit requirements but must still comply with zoning setbacks and drainage rules. Walls exceeding 4 feet require engineered plans stamped by a licensed civil or structural engineer and a building permit. Walls supporting surcharge loads — driveways, structures, swimming pools, steep slopes — require engineering regardless of height. Retaining walls count separately from fence height for zoning purposes. Adequate drainage (weep holes, drainage pipe behind wall, gravel backfill) is required to prevent hydrostatic pressure failure. Walls along property lines may require coordination with neighbors and lateral support easements. Terraced walls may trigger additional engineering depending on spacing.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Contra Costa County.
See how other cities in Contra Costa County handle retaining walls.
See how Antioch's retaining walls rules stack up against other locations.
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