Gaithersburg permits retaining walls where changes in street grade, width, or alignment make them necessary. Section 24-167 exempts retaining walls from the corner lot sight triangle restriction when they address grade changes. Retaining walls over 4 feet typically require a building permit and engineering review.
Gaithersburg Section 24-167 specifically addresses retaining walls within the fence and wall regulations. Retaining walls are permitted where changes in street grade, width, or alignment have made such structures necessary, and they are exempted from the corner lot sight triangle height restriction that applies to other fences and walls. Retaining walls over 4 feet in height generally require a building permit and may need structural engineering review under Chapter 5 (Buildings) and the adopted International Building Code. Walls that retain earth and also serve as a fence are measured for height compliance from the grade on the higher side. Drainage and grading plans may be required to ensure the retaining wall does not redirect stormwater onto adjacent properties. The Gaithersburg Department of Permitting and Inspections reviews retaining wall applications and may require a geotechnical report for walls over certain heights.
Retaining wall over 4 feet without permit: building code violation and stop work order. Wall causing drainage damage to neighbors: potential civil liability and code enforcement action.
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