Retaining walls in Brentwood up to 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall generally do not require a building permit if they do not support a surcharge (driveway, slope, or structure). Walls over 4 feet or supporting a surcharge require a building permit with engineered drawings.
Retaining wall requirements in Brentwood follow the California Building Code as adopted under BMC Title 15 (Building & Construction). Walls up to 4 feet tall (measured from bottom of footing to top of wall) that do not support a surcharge (sloped backfill, driveway, or other load above the wall) can generally be built without a building permit, though they still must comply with zoning setbacks and drainage rules. Walls over 4 feet, or any wall supporting a surcharge regardless of height, require a building permit and engineered drawings stamped by a California-licensed civil or structural engineer. Drainage must be provided behind the wall (weep holes or drain rock with perforated pipe) to prevent hydrostatic buildup. On hillside lots in Brentwood Hills or the eastern foothills, grading permits may also be required for earthwork exceeding 50 cubic yards. Walls affecting a neighboring property's drainage or lateral support are subject to additional engineering review and potentially easements. Non-permitted walls discovered during a property sale inspection can become costly correction items.
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 Brentwood's retaining walls rules stack up against other locations.
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