Do I need a permit for a 3-foot retaining wall?

Generally no, if it does not support a surcharge load like a driveway or building. However, some local jurisdictions may require permits regardless of height for zoning or stormwater purposes.

Can a local city waive the state code?

No. Local governments must enforce the statewide-adopted IRC and IBC at minimum. They may petition the SC Building Codes Council to adopt stricter local amendments.

Does the wall height include the buried footing?

Yes. Wall height under the IRC is measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, not from grade to top.

South Carolina Retaining Walls (2026)

Key Facts

Permit threshold: Walls over 4 feet
Code authority: SC Code 6-9-50
Adopted code: IRC and IBC
Surcharge walls: Always require permit
Engineering required: Walls over 4 feet

Source: South Carolina Legislature

Full Breakdown

Under SC Code Section 6-9-50, the IRC and IBC apply uniformly statewide. The IRC generally exempts retaining walls under 4 feet measured from bottom of footing to top of wall and not supporting surcharge loads from permitting. Walls exceeding this threshold or supporting structures, slopes, or driveways require building permits and signed engineering drawings. Local jurisdictions enforce state minimums and cannot adopt weaker standards. Geotechnical considerations, drainage, and frost-depth footings must conform to adopted code provisions. Soil conditions in coastal counties may require additional site-specific engineering.

Violations & Penalties

Building without a required permit may result in stop-work orders, demolition orders, and civil penalties imposed by the local building official enforcing the state-adopted code.

South Carolina Statewide Retaining Wall Building Code

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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