Berks County sets no retaining-wall rule. In the City of Reading, retaining walls are governed by the construction codes (Chapter 180); under PA's Uniform Construction Code, walls over 4 feet generally require a building permit.
Retaining-wall regulation in Berks County is municipal. In the City of Reading, § 600-1301 notes that Chapter 180 (Construction Codes) contains the requirements for any retaining wall. Statewide, Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code (34 Pa. Code Ch. 403) exempts retaining walls not over 4 feet measured from the lowest grade to the top of the wall, unless the wall supports a surcharge or impounds certain liquids — taller walls or surcharged walls need a building permit and engineering. Most PA municipalities still require a zoning permit regardless of height, so confirm with Reading Codes or your township office before building.
Building a regulated retaining wall without the required UCC/zoning permit is a code violation; municipalities can issue stop-work orders, fines, and require engineered plans or removal.
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