Lincoln requires a building permit for retaining walls over 4 feet tall measured from footing bottom to wall top. Walls 4 feet or shorter that do not support a surcharge are exempt from permit requirements.
Under Lincoln building regulations aligned with the International Residential Code, retaining walls exceeding 4 feet in height from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall require a building permit and engineering review. Walls that support a surcharge (additional load such as a driveway, structure, or slope above) may require a permit regardless of height. Retaining walls 4 feet or shorter that do not retain a surcharge or liquid are exempt from building permits. Even exempt walls must comply with city grading and drainage requirements. Engineered plans may be required for walls in areas with drainage concerns or on steep lots. The permit exemption does not override HOA requirements or city zoning and grading regulations.
Unpermitted retaining walls over 4 feet may face stop-work orders, required engineering review, mandatory permit application, and potential removal if structural concerns exist.
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See how Lincoln's retaining walls rules stack up against other locations.
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