Retaining walls over 4 feet in height require a building permit and engineered plans under CMC Title 16 and the California Building Code. Combined retaining wall and fence heights are measured from the lower finished grade. Retaining walls are common in Camarillo's hillside neighborhoods.
Under CMC Title 16 and California Building Code Section 105.2, retaining walls exceeding 4 feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) require a building permit. Walls over 4 feet also require engineered plans prepared by a licensed civil or structural engineer. The combined height of a retaining wall with a fence on top is typically measured from the lower finished grade to the top of the fence. Retaining walls must provide adequate drainage to prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup, typically requiring weep holes or drainage aggregate behind the wall. Walls in hillside areas may require geotechnical investigation. Grading permits under CMC Title 20 (Development Control) may be required for associated earthwork. Retaining walls in the public right-of-way require an encroachment permit. In Camarillo's hillside developments, many retaining walls are part of the original tract construction and may be HOA-maintained community infrastructure.
Unpermitted retaining walls over 4 feet violate CMC Title 16. The city may require engineering analysis, retroactive permits, or wall modification/removal. Failing walls present safety hazards and may result in emergency orders. Contact Community Development at (805) 388-5360.
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