Simi Valley requires building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet in height and engineering for walls supporting surcharges. Retaining walls are common in the city's hillside areas and must meet structural and drainage standards.
Retaining walls in Simi Valley over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall require a building permit and engineered plans prepared by a licensed civil or structural engineer. Walls supporting surcharges (such as driveways, slopes, or structures) require permits regardless of height. Multiple tiered walls within a certain distance of each other may be treated as a single wall for height calculation purposes. All retaining walls must include proper drainage (weep holes or perforated drain pipe) to prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup. In hillside overlay zones, retaining walls are subject to additional geotechnical review.
Unpermitted retaining walls that fail or cause damage may result in the owner being liable for neighboring property damage. Code Enforcement may require retroactive permitting with double fees. Walls that do not meet engineering standards may be ordered removed or reconstructed. Violations carry fines from $100 to $500.
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