Kenosha, WI Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit threshold
- Over 5 feet in height
- Exempt walls
- 5 ft or less, measured footing to top
- Engineer requirement
- Licensed civil engineer approval letter
- Permit issuer
- Dept. of Community Development and Inspections
- Plan sets required
- 2 sets of plans and specifications
Summary
Kenosha requires a Retaining Wall Permit with licensed civil engineer approval for any retaining wall taller than five feet; walls of five feet or less are exempt under the Building Code's general permit exemptions.
9.26. - Retaining Walls.A.Permit Required. No Person may construct, build, Alter or modify any retaining wall over the height of five (5) feet without first obtaining a Retaining Wall Permit from the Department of Community Development and Inspections.B.Application. Application for a Retaining Wall Permit shall be made by a fully completed, City-provided application form, and submitted along with two (2) sets of plans and specifications, a letter from a licensed civil engineer approving the plans and specifications, and the Retaining Wall Permit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 11 Update 1 | Zoning Ordinance: Supplement 9).
Full Breakdown
A of the Building Code requires a Retaining Wall Permit from the Department of Community Development and Inspections before anyone constructs, builds, alters or modifies a retaining wall over five feet in height. B requires the application to be made on a City-provided form and submitted with two sets of plans and specifications, plus a letter from a licensed civil engineer approving those plans and specifications, essentially requiring engineering sign-off for any taller wall. A, which lists 'Retaining Walls' among the fee categories the Department of City Inspections charges. F if work proceeds contrary to the Code.
Violations & Fines
Building, altering or modifying a retaining wall over five feet in height without a Section 9.26 permit and licensed civil engineer's approval letter is a Building Code violation; the Code Official may issue a Stop Work Order under Section 9.08.F, and unpermitted work is subject to the tripled or quintupled fee schedule in Section 9.07.C.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what height does a retaining wall need a permit in Kenosha?
Do I need an engineer for my retaining wall in Kenosha?
Which department issues Kenosha retaining wall permits?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kenosha
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