Kent County sets no retaining-wall rule. Retaining walls are governed by your municipality's zoning and building code under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act. Taller walls typically need engineering and a building permit from the local jurisdiction.
Kent County does not zone or issue building permits for private retaining walls; that authority rests with each city, village, or zoned township under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act (MCL 125.3201) and the Michigan Building Code adopted locally. Most Michigan municipalities require a building permit and engineered plans once a retaining wall exceeds about 4 feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing), or when it supports a surcharge such as a driveway. Height, setback, and drainage requirements vary by municipality, so confirm the threshold with your local building or zoning department before construction.
Enforcement is municipal: building without a required permit can bring a stop-work order, a civil infraction, and an order to remove or re-engineer the wall. The county does not enforce private retaining walls.
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