Tempe requires building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet in height. Walls exceeding 4 feet must be designed by a licensed engineer. Combined height of retaining wall and fence on top counts toward height limits. Retaining walls must not redirect drainage onto neighboring properties. The building code (Chapter 8) and Zoning and Development Code govern retaining wall construction.
Retaining walls in Tempe are regulated under the building code (Chapter 8) and Zoning and Development Code. Retaining walls 4 feet or less in height (measured from footing bottom to wall top) generally do not require a building permit. Walls over 4 feet require a building permit and engineered plans by an Arizona-licensed structural engineer. When a fence sits on top of a retaining wall, the combined height counts toward zoning height limits. Retaining walls must be designed to handle the soil and loading conditions, which in Tempe may include expansive clay soils in some areas. Drainage behind retaining walls must be properly managed with weep holes or drainage systems to prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup. Walls must not redirect stormwater onto neighboring properties. The city's building department reviews retaining wall permit applications as part of the plan review process.
Retaining walls over 4 feet built without permits or engineering may face stop-work orders, fines, and mandatory remediation.
Tempe, AZ
Tempe regulates industrial noise through Chapter 20 (Noise) of the City Code and the Zoning and Development Code. Industrial uses must not generate noise exc...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance (Chapter 20) and animal control regulations. Dogs that bark persistently and disturb neighbors ca...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe requires vehicles to park on approved hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt driveways. Parking on dirt, gravel, or landscaped areas is prohibited. ...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe enforces AZ §13-2910 animal cruelty for hoarding. Tempe City Code Ch. 8 limits number of dogs/cats in residential zones; MCACC investigates complaints ...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe requires dogs to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when off the owner's property. Dogs must be under the handler's control at all times in public spa...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe does not enforce breed-specific legislation. No dog breeds are banned within city limits. However, dogs classified as dangerous or vicious based on beh...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle retaining walls.
See how Tempe's retaining walls rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.