Bakersfield requires building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, and for any retaining wall supporting a surcharge (such as a driveway, pool, or structure) regardless of height. Engineered plans stamped by a California-licensed civil or structural engineer are required for walls over 4 feet. Walls within property setbacks and near slopes have additional requirements.
Per the California Building Code as adopted in BMC Title 15, retaining walls 4 feet or less in height with no surcharge are exempt from building permits but must still meet zoning setbacks. Walls exceeding 4 feet from the bottom of the footing or supporting a load (driveway, building, pool) require a building permit and engineered drawings. Bakersfield's soil conditions in some areas, particularly the northeast foothills and areas near the Kern River bluffs, may require geotechnical investigation. Drainage behind retaining walls is required to prevent hydrostatic pressure. Combined retaining wall and fence structures where the total height exceeds 6 feet generally require a permit and may be limited by zoning. Permits are issued by Development Services at 1715 Chester Avenue.
Constructing a retaining wall without a required permit is a violation of BMC Title 15. Code Enforcement can issue stop-work orders, require engineered analysis of existing walls, and order removal or reconstruction of non-compliant walls. Wall failures causing damage to neighboring property create civil liability. Walls over 4 feet without permits may be discovered at property sale and become a costly retrofit.
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