Ann Arbor's UDC lets retaining walls sit anywhere on a lot, including within required setback areas. The county does not zone them; a building permit may still apply to taller walls under the Michigan Residential Code.
Under Ann Arbor UDC Section 5.18, retaining walls are among the structures that may be located anywhere on a lot, including in any required setback area—unlike principal buildings and most accessory structures, which must respect setbacks. This gives homeowners flexibility to manage grade near lot lines. The UDC does not cap retaining-wall height by zoning, but structural walls (commonly those over 4 feet or supporting a surcharge) require a building permit and engineering review under the Michigan Residential Code. Washtenaw County does not regulate residential retaining walls; the Water Resources Commissioner may review walls affecting drains or stormwater. Confirm requirements with your city or township building department.
A retaining wall built without a required building permit, or that endangers property or a neighbor's drainage, can trigger a stop-work order and corrective action.
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See how Washtenaw County's retaining walls rules stack up against other locations.
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