Calaveras County, CA Fence Regulations: Retaining Walls (2026)

Calaveras County's Zoning Code (Title 17) treats retaining walls like fences for setback purposes: Section 17.16.080.A.1.d lists 'Fences, retaining walls, decorative walls, arbors, trellises, and similar features' as allowed encroachments into required setbacks, 'subject to applicable requirements of Title 15, Building and Construction.' Title 15 adopts the California Building Code, and CBC Section 105.2 exempts from a building permit 'retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or IIIA liquids.' In plain terms, a retaining wall taller than 4 feet measured from footing to top, or any wall holding back an additional load (a surcharge) such as a slope, driveway, or structure above it, requires a building permit even if it is shorter. Walls may also trigger the county's grading and drainage requirements in Title 15, Chapter 15.05, where earthwork or slope changes are involved, and any grading permit must conform to the General Plan, the Zoning Code, and the building codes. Because retaining-wall rules turn on height, footing depth, and surcharge, property owners should confirm permit needs with the Calaveras County Building Department and, where grading is involved, Public Works.