Scranton, PA Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)

Retaining walls get a single sentence in the zoning chapter: § 445-23C says 'Retaining walls necessary to support the geotechnical needs of a lot shall be permitted,' meaning the use itself, holding back a slope or grade change, is an allowed accessory use in every zoning district without needing a special exception or variance from the Zoning Hearing Board.

Being allowed in principle doesn't mean it's exempt from a building permit, though. Scranton's amendments to the Uniform Construction Code, adopted at § 201-2, list retaining walls among the construction that always needs a permit. The residential amendment at § 201-2D, replacing UCC § 403.62(c), requires a permit for 'the following building construction, replacement or repairs: (i) Fences. (ii) Retaining walls,' and the commercial amendment at § 201-2A, replacing § 403.42(c), lists retaining walls the same way for commercial property. That permit goes to the Building Code Official rather than the Zoning Officer, and under § 403.43(g) as locally amended, it becomes invalid if construction doesn't begin within 180 days of issuance, or if work is suspended for 180 days once started, though a property owner can request a written extension for just cause, up to three years from the original issue date.