Retaining walls over 4 feet (measured bottom of footing to top) require a building permit under the California Building Code, adopted by El Monte in EMMC Title 15.
El Monte adopts the California Building Code by reference in Municipal Code Title 15 (Buildings and Construction). Under CBC § 105.2 (Work Exempt from Permit), retaining walls 4 feet or less in height (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) do not require a permit, provided they are not supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II, or III-A liquids. Walls over 4 feet, or any wall retaining a surcharge load (driveway, slope, pool deck), require a building permit with engineered plans. The wall must also comply with zoning fence-height limits in EMMC § 17.60.120 when a fence is mounted on top — combined height is measured from the lower adjacent grade. Drainage behind retaining walls is required to prevent hydrostatic loading.
Walls built without required permits are subject to stop-work orders and double permit fees under Title 15. Structural failure or unpermitted walls over 4 ft can be declared a public nuisance under EMMC Chapter 8 and abated at the owner's expense. Standard penalties under EMMC Chapter 1.20 apply: $100/$200/$500.
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