A building permit and engineered design is required for a retaining wall when the wall is over 4 feet in height measured from the top of the wall to the bottom of the footing or if supporting a surcharge. (See illustrations below to determine if a surcharge is present) Terraced or tiered retaining walls require a building permit and engineered design if the walls are over 4 feet in height or spaced apart at a distance less than two times the height of the lower wall. The following is required for submitting a retaining wall permit:
During construction of the wall(s), it is the responsibility of the permit holder to have the engineer of record perform an inspection(s) to ensure the construction is in compliance with their design and the approved plans. Upon completion of the retaining wall, copies of the Engineer’s inspection report or observation letter shall be submitted to the Douglas County Building Department to finalize and close out the building permit.