Retaining Wall Permit Requirements in Lincoln, ND
Small city near Bismarck in Burleigh County. Some permits handled by Burleigh County Building/Planning/Zoning. North Dakota adopted the 2024 IRC effective January 1, 2026.
By Joey, Founder · Last verified March 28, 2026 · How we research →
When you don’t need a Retaining Wall permit in Lincoln
Retaining walls 4 feet or less in height (measured from bottom of footing to top) are exempt from a permit.
When you need a Retaining Wall permit in Lincoln
Retaining walls over 4 feet require a building permit and engineered design.
Retaining walls supporting a surcharge (slope, driveway, structure) require a permit regardless of height.
Retaining Wall Permit Costs: Lincoln vs. Nearby
Lincoln's fees are right in line with the North Dakota average, $175 – $840 versus $192 – $796 statewide.
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Lincoln | $175 – $840 |
| Fargo | $250 – $1,200 |
| Bismarck | $250 – $1,200 |
| Grand Forks | $250 – $1,200 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all Lincoln permit costs →
Zoning Considerations
Retaining walls near property lines may require zoning setback review. Walls that significantly change the grade of a property may need additional zoning approval.
Estimated Project Timeline in Lincoln
Here's a typical timeline for a retaining wall project in Lincoln, ND:
Timeline is based on Lincoln's typical about 2 weeks permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Estimated permit fees for Retaining Wall projects in Lincoln, ND range from $175 – $840. 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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln is about 2 weeks. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
Learn More About Retaining Wall Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Retaining Wall Guide →