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A permit is required to install a retaining wall if the retained height is over 30 inches or is supporting any surcharge load (sloped soil, pedestrian/vehicular traffic, etc.), or impounds Class I, II or IIA liquids, or crosses a lot line. 

A permit application for a retaining wall installed on the private property line must be accompanied by a letter of approval from the adjacent property owner. A separate permit will be needed for any segment of the retaining wall on crossing a lot line.  Occasionally, lot conditions require approvals from other agencies such as easement holders, or homeowner associations. Any dispute as to whether a Retaining Wall has extended into a neighbor’s property or questions about the location of property lines is a legal matter to be resolved by the property owners. Any Retaining Wall installed within the County right of way will not be permitted and will be required to be removed.  A retaining wall is considered an accessory structure if it exceeds the height of 6' - 6.”

Retaining walls with a design wall height of over 7’-0” shall also meet the submittal criteria for Montgomery County Special Inspection Program.

Commercial Retaining Wall Permit Submittal Requirements
Special Inspections Program Manual
Statement of Special Inspections
1

Apply and Pay

How it Works

Apply Online

3

Plans Review

How it Works

 

Check Permit Status

4

Pay Outstanding Fees

How it Works

Fee Schedule

Pay Online

5

Permit Issuance

How it Works

Check Permit Status

6

Schedule Inspection

How it Works

Inspection Requests

7

Permit Revision

How it Works

Pay Online

8

Schedule Final Inspection

How it Works

Inspection Requests