Philadelphia, PA Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)
Key Facts
- Combined height cap
- Equals max fence height for that location
- Exposed retaining wall
- Counts as fence above higher grade
- Masonry permit trigger
- Building permit over 2 ft
- Code Section
- Zoning Code 14-706
Summary
Where a fence sits on top of a retaining wall in Philadelphia, the combined height of the exposed retaining wall plus the fence may not exceed the maximum height permitted for a fence in that location.
Where a fence is located on top of a retaining wall, the combined height of the retaining wall that exists above the higher level grade and fence shall not exceed the maximum height permitted for a fence.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 Code: Electronic version of The Philadelphia Code and Home Rule Charter is current through August 19, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Zoning Code 14-706 addresses fences placed on retaining walls so that owners cannot use grade changes to circumvent the height limits. Any portion of a retaining wall that exists above the higher-level grade is treated as a fence and must comply with the fence requirements. Where a fence is located on top of a retaining wall, the combined height of the retaining wall above the higher-level grade plus the fence shall not exceed the maximum height permitted for a fence (4 feet in the front/street-side area subject to the 50% opacity rule, or 6 feet elsewhere on a residential lot). A building permit is required for masonry walls/fences that exceed two feet in height. This provision works together with the front-setback and sight-triangle limits so that a tall masonry retaining wall topped by a fence cannot exceed the effective fence height cap in a given yard.
Violations & Fines
A retaining-wall-plus-fence combination that exceeds the applicable fence height is a zoning violation requiring a ZBA variance; L&I can issue a refusal. Masonry retaining walls over two feet built without a building permit are subject to L&I enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a fence on top of my retaining wall in Philadelphia?
Does the retaining wall count toward my fence height?
Do I need a permit for a masonry retaining wall?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Philadelphia
Compare Philadelphia to another location·View the Pennsylvania fence regulations overview
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