Laguna Niguel treats retaining walls as fences under LNMC 9-1-35.2, subject to the same height limits, except retaining walls on slopes 10 feet or more high at 2:1 or steeper, which are regulated as unenclosed accessory structures under Sec. 9-1-35.3.
Under LNMC 9-1-35.2(a), a retaining wall is included in the definition of fence or wall and follows the same height limits (42 inches in front setbacks, six feet in side/rear setbacks). An exception applies to retaining walls located on a slope that is 10 feet or more in height with a grade of 2:1 or steeper; those are classified as unenclosed accessory structures under Sec. 9-1-35.3. Open railings up to 48 inches may be placed on top of a retaining wall for pedestrian safety, beyond the wall height limit, with director approval and only where fences over 42 inches are otherwise permitted. Masonry retaining walls require a building permit, and a soils report by a licensed engineer may be required.
Unpermitted or over-height retaining walls draw correction notices from the Building Division and zoning enforcement; taller walls may require engineering and a minor adjustment under Sec. 9-1-114.
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