Stockton, CA Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)

Stockton follows the California Building Code for retaining wall permitting. Retaining walls not exceeding 4 feet in height, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, are exempt from building permits unless they support a surcharge such as an adjacent slope, footing, driveway, or other structure. Any retaining wall over 4 feet requires a building permit and engineered structural plans stamped by a licensed civil or structural engineer. Walls supporting a surcharge at any height also require a permit and engineering review. Retaining walls must comply with drainage requirements to prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup, typically requiring weep holes or a perforated drainage pipe behind the wall. Walls adjacent to property lines must maintain required setbacks per the zoning district. Combined retaining wall and fence height (where a fence sits atop a retaining wall) is regulated; the total height from the lower finished grade to the top of the fence generally cannot exceed the maximum fence height allowed in the zone without additional approvals. A grading permit may also be required if significant earth-moving is involved. The Building and Life Safety Division at (209) 937-8561 handles retaining wall permits.