Question 1

How tall can a retaining wall be without engineering?

Accepted Answer

Most municipalities require engineered designs for retaining walls over four feet tall. Some areas have even lower thresholds. Walls holding back steep slopes, supporting structures, or in areas with poor soil conditions might need engineering regardless of height. An engineer calculates the forces acting on the wall and designs appropriate foundation, reinforcement, and drainage systems. This isn't just a regulatory requirement but good practice that ensures your wall is safe and will last. If your project requires engineering, we work with qualified structural engineers who design retaining walls regularly. The engineering fees add to project costs but provide peace of mind that your wall is properly designed. For shorter walls under four feet, we follow industry best practices and building codes without formal engineering.

Question 2

Can I build a retaining wall right on my property line?

Accepted Answer

Property line placement requires careful consideration of local regulations and neighbor relations. Some municipalities allow walls on property lines while others require setbacks. If your wall will be right on the line, you might need your neighbor's permission or an easement agreement. You also need to ensure drainage from your wall doesn't negatively impact the neighboring property. We recommend surveying your property lines before designing the wall to avoid any boundary disputes. In many cases, placing the wall a few feet inside your property line gives you room to work during construction and simplifies permitting. It also leaves space for landscaping and access for future maintenance. We can help you evaluate the best placement during the planning phase and advise on any agreements you might need with neighbors.

Question 3

How much does a retaining wall cost per linear foot?

Accepted Answer

Retaining wall costs vary widely based on height, materials, site conditions, and complexity. Simple concrete block walls might cost 30 to 50 dollars per square foot of wall face. Natural stone walls can run 50 to 100 dollars per square foot or more. Poured concrete walls fall somewhere in between. These are rough estimates, and actual costs depend on many factors. Difficult access that requires hand-carrying materials costs more than sites where equipment can work easily. Walls requiring engineering, deep foundations, or extensive drainage systems increase costs. The only way to get accurate pricing is through an on-site assessment where we can evaluate your specific situation. We provide detailed written quotes that break down all costs so you understand exactly what you're paying for. Many homeowners find that investing in quality retaining wall construction saves money compared to dealing with erosion damage, foundation problems, or failed walls that need replacement.

Retaining Walls & Concrete Masonry

Retaining Wall Types

Poured Concrete Walls

Concrete Block Walls

Stone Veneer Walls

Terraced Systems

Garden Walls

Why Retaining Walls Matter

Erosion Control

Create Usable Space

Foundation Protection

Increase Property Value

Frequently Asked Questions

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