Retaining walls are allowed within required yards in all Rutherford County zoning districts as a permitted obstruction, provided they do not impede the vision triangle or block natural water drainage. Structural retaining walls also fall under Building and Codes review.
The Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance (Section 1101 C.1.j) lists retaining walls among the items that are not considered obstructions when located within a required yard, so they are broadly permitted across all districts. They must still comply with the Section 1101 A visibility-at-intersections rule and the Section 1101 B fence and wall provisions. Walls or vegetation that impede natural water drainage or runoff are prohibited under Section 1101 B.10. Taller or structural retaining walls typically require engineering and a building permit through the County Building and Codes Department, which reviews structural adequacy and drainage. Confirm easement and property-line clearances before construction.
A retaining wall that blocks drainage, impairs the vision triangle, or lacks required building/engineering approval may be cited by county code enforcement and ordered corrected or removed.
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