Arlington, TX Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)

Arlington's building code, adopted from the 2021 International Residential Code with local amendments, requires engineered design for any retaining wall exceeding 4 feet measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall. Walls supporting surcharge loads (driveways, structures, or slopes above) require engineering regardless of height. Plans must include soil bearing capacity, drainage provisions, reinforcement details, and global stability analysis. Tiered walls where the horizontal distance between walls is less than twice the height of the lower wall are considered a single combined structure for permitting purposes. Retaining walls in drainage easements require a drainage easement encroachment agreement and cannot impede stormwater flow. Segmental block walls (keystone, versa-lok) over 4 feet must follow manufacturer specifications and engineered design. Proper drainage behind the wall (gravel backfill, weep holes or drain pipe) is mandatory to prevent hydrostatic pressure failure. Inspections are required at footing, reinforcement, and final stages. Walls along property lines must respect neighbor's lateral support rights under Texas common law, meaning excavation cannot destabilize adjacent property.