Feb 23, 2024 · Any retaining wall that retains more than 4 feet of earth requires a permit. Retaining wall construction falls under IBC 2018 section 1807.2: IBC 1807.2.2 sends us to IBC 1610: Basically, a retaining wall of this height has to be designed -- you don't just build it.

Nov 22, 2021 · 2. where is the retaining wall on the property in relation to the home...location matters. 7.5 ft side setback. Wall at that 7.5 ft from dwelling location 3. you stated that the retaining wall is on the property line, So is it on both sides of the line or on the high side or low side's property? On the low side's property IT makes a difference....

Oct 22, 2009 · Retaining walls with a difference in finished grade from the top of the wall to the bottom of the wall that is greater than 4 feet (1219 mm) shall be provided with guards complying with Sections R312.1.2 and R312.1.3 when there is a walking surface, parking lot or driveway on the high side located closer than 2 feet (610 mm) to the retaining wall.

Oct 20, 2009 · I have a 2 proposed 10' high retaining walls with surcharges from nearby houses. 2009 IRC - R03.1.4.1 Frost Protection. Except where otherwise protected from frost, foundation walls, piers and other permanent supports of buildings and structures shall be protected from frost by one or more of...

Nov 16, 2023 · Where unbalanced backfill retained by the stem wall is less than or equal to 18 inches (457 mm), the stem wall and above-grade wall it supports shall be provided with vertical reinforcement in accordance with Section R608.6 and Table R608.6(1), R608.6(2) or R608.6(3) for above-grade walls.

Nov 24, 2019 · The wall is on the property line. When he originally called it a retaining wall in 2010 the building inspector said that required a 5' set back and a footing. There are no requirements for a fence 6 feet or less, so the owner changed it to a fence. After the house was finished, he used the end of the fence as an illegal retaining wall.

Sep 27, 2012 · 2304.11.7 for wood retaining walls. 2009 IRC R105.2 Work exempt from permit. 3. 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. R404.4 Retaining walls.

May 21, 2017 · Hello! I'm having a new construction home built in Lake Stevens, Wa and there is a retaining wall around my lot that results in a 3' drop-off around my back yard. I was wondering if there are any building codes that would require the builder to provide fencing as a 3' drop-off seems like it would be some sort of safety violation.

Nov 15, 2021 · The building code does not address their use. As a retaining wall, if over 4-ft it would typically be designed by an engineer. So if the engineer can design it, it can be built. However, that would not address prohibitions made on a federal or state level due to environmental regulations (i.e. CWA, CAA, etc.).

May 20, 2017 · For example, if a 4 ft. retaining wall separates two homes, and the space adjacent to the wall is traversed by landscapers, HVAC techs, etc. then in my opinion, I'd consider it a walking surface and common sense for there to be a guard to prevent someone from falling off the wall onto concrete below. I believe the intent of the code agrees: