Davenport, IA Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit-Free
- Up to 4 feet
- Permit Required
- Over 4 feet
- Surcharged Walls
- Permit at any height
- Measured
- Footing bottom to wall top
- Building Code
- 2021 IBC/IRC (DMC 15.12)
Summary
Davenport requires a building permit for retaining walls over four feet, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, or for any wall supporting a surcharge. Walls follow the adopted 2021 International Building and Residential Codes.
Retaining walls which are not over four feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding flammable liquids; any wood or landscape timber walls.
Full Breakdown
Under the City of Davenport permit schedule, retaining walls over four feet require a building permit; walls not over four feet, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, are exempt unless they support a surcharge (a slope, driveway, or structure above) or impound flammable liquids. Wood and landscape-timber walls are also listed as permit-exempt. Davenport enforces the 2021 International Building Code and International Residential Code (Municipal Code Chapter 15.12), and the Building Official may require engineered designs for taller or surcharged retaining systems. Address drainage and lot-line setbacks in the design.
Violations & Fines
Building a retaining wall over four feet, or a surcharged wall, without a permit can bring a stop-work order, a required after-the-fact permit with engineered plans, and municipal-infraction fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Davenport?
Do tall retaining walls need engineering?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Davenport
Compare Davenport to another location·View the Iowa fence regulations overview
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