Retaining walls in Fresno require a building permit when they are 4 feet or taller measured from bottom of footing to top, or at any height when they support a surcharge load (slope, driveway, structure). Engineered plans stamped by a California licensed engineer are required for walls over 4 feet.
California Building Code §105.2 and the Fresno Municipal Code require a permit for any retaining wall over 4 feet tall measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall. Walls supporting a surcharge (additional load beyond the soil mass such as a slope, driveway, vehicle traffic, or structure) require a permit at any height. Engineered plans are required for walls over 4 feet tall or with surcharge, prepared by a California licensed civil or structural engineer. Common engineered wall systems in Fresno include segmental block (Keystone, Allan Block), poured concrete, CMU with rebar, and soldier pile or tieback systems for cuts near property lines. Drainage behind retaining walls is required under CBC Chapter 18; failure leads to hydrostatic blowout. Walls must not divert stormwater onto neighbor property (Civil Code §§829-830). On sloped lots near the San Joaquin River bluffs, geotechnical reports are commonly required. Permit fees are based on valuation plus plan review.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Fresno code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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