Colorado Springs, CO Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)

UDC 7.4.910B.7 and 7.6.204B.2 both provide that fences may be located adjacent to or on top of retaining walls provided the height of the fence material, excluding the retaining wall, does not exceed the maximum permitted height of a permitted fence in that location. The existing grade of the fence area may not be artificially altered to comply with height regulations (7.6.204B.3). In street frontage areas, UDC 7.4.905 limits opaque portions of fences and walls visible from a public or private street to three (3) feet above existing grade at the base, unless otherwise provided; the Manager may allow a retaining wall higher than three feet where required by special grading conditions, provided the wall is visually softened by plantings of trees or shrubs and utility operation and maintenance are accommodated. Opaque walls and fences higher than three feet must be located outside the required landscaped setback unless the Manager determines an in-setback location is necessary for the wall or fence to serve its intended purpose. Walls and fences must complement the site's architecture and be sufficiently low or open to permit views for security and safety.