Glendale requires building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall). Retaining walls over 4 feet must be designed by a licensed engineer. Combined height of a retaining wall and fence on top is subject to overall height limits. The Unified Development Code and International Building Code govern retaining wall construction.
Retaining walls in Glendale are regulated under the building code (Chapter 9) and the Unified Development Code (Chapter 35). Retaining walls 4 feet or less in height, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, generally do not require a building permit. Walls exceeding 4 feet require a building permit and engineered plans prepared by an Arizona-licensed structural engineer. When a fence is placed on top of a retaining wall, the combined height of the retaining wall and fence is measured for compliance with zoning height limits. Retaining walls must not redirect stormwater drainage onto neighboring properties. In areas with expansive desert soils common in the west Valley, proper footing design is critical. Glendale's Development Services reviews retaining wall permit applications. Retaining walls along public right-of-way or in drainage easements may require additional review and approval from the city's Engineering division.
Retaining walls built without required permits or engineering may face stop-work orders, fines, and mandatory remediation. Walls causing drainage problems to neighbors may result in additional enforcement.
Glendale, AZ
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Glendale, AZ
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