Massachusetts regulates retaining walls statewide through the State Building Code 780 CMR, requiring permits and engineering for walls retaining more than four feet of unbalanced fill or surcharged loads.
Under 780 CMR Chapter 18 and the Massachusetts Residential Code, retaining walls over 4 feet measured from bottom of footing to top of wall, or any wall supporting a surcharge, require building permits and engineered design by a registered professional. The State Building Code applies uniformly under MGL c. 143 s. 95, though municipalities may add zoning setback requirements. Wall design must address lateral earth pressure, surcharge, and drainage.
Stop work orders, permit revocation, fines up to $1,000 per day under MGL c. 143 s. 94, mandatory removal of unsafe walls.
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