Retaining Wall Permit Requirements in Washington, DC
When you DON'T need a permit
Retaining walls under 4 feet do not require a building permit in Washington, DC, unless supporting a surcharge.
Source: DC Construction Code
When you DO need a permit
Retaining walls 4 feet or taller require a building permit and engineered design in Washington, DC.
Estimated fee: $180 – $720
Typical timeline: About 3 weeks
Source: DC Construction Code
Retaining walls supporting a surcharge require a building permit in Washington, DC regardless of height.
Estimated fee: $180 – $720
Typical timeline: About 3 weeks
Source: DC Construction Code
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Frequently Asked Questions
Estimated permit fees for Retaining Wall projects in Washington, DC range from $180 – $720. Fees vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Retaining Wall projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Working without a required permit in Washington can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.
Typical approval time for Retaining Wall permits in Washington is About 3 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.