Adams County, CO Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)
Key Facts
- Engineer required over
- 4 feet (48 inches)
- Guard rail trigger
- Over 36 inches (Director's discretion)
- Max guard rail height
- 5 feet at top of grade
- Waiver authority
- CED Director
- Governing code
- DSR 4-06-01-02-01-03
Summary
In unincorporated Adams County, any retaining wall over 4 feet high must be designed by a professional engineer as a condition of the building permit. Walls over 36 inches may be required to have a guard rail up to 5 feet.
Any retaining wall over four (4) feet in height shall require preparation by a professional engineer as a condition for a building permit, except where waived by the Director of Community and Economic Development.
Full Breakdown
Adams County DSR 4-06-01-02-01-03 requires that any retaining wall over 4 feet in height be prepared by a professional engineer as a condition of a building permit, unless waived by the Director of Community & Economic Development. The Director may also require any retaining wall over 36 inches to have a guard rail up to 5 feet high placed at the top of grade. Wall height is measured from the bottom of the footing/grade below to the top of the wall. Incorporated cities apply their own retaining wall standards.
Violations & Fines
An unpermitted or non-engineered retaining wall over 4 feet is a code violation subject to correction orders; the county may require engineered redesign or removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a retaining wall need engineered plans in Adams County?
When is a guard rail required on a retaining wall?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Adams County
Compare Adams County to another location·View the Colorado fence regulations overview
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