When does a retaining wall need a building permit in Los Angeles?

LADBS exempts only a wall 4 ft or less with level ground behind it, on ground no steeper than 1 in 5. A wall 4 ft or less with level ground behind it, on ground no steeper than 1 in 5, needs no building permit in Los Angeles.

Where do I apply for a retaining wall permit in Los Angeles?

Apply through LADBS, or call 311 (213-473-3231).

Do you need a permit for a retaining wall in Los Angeles, CA?

It depends on the details of your project.

A wall 4 ft or less with level ground behind it needs no permit.

A wall that holds back a slope needs a permit at any height.

A wall on ground steeper than 1 in 5 (20 percent) needs a permit.

A person last checked these rules on October 22, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Los Angeles before you build.

Permits a retaining wall can need in Los Angeles

Permit	When it applies
Building permit	LADBS exempts only a wall 4 ft or less with level ground behind it, on ground no steeper than 1 in 5.Medium confidence
Floodplain development permit	Grading and walls in a FEMA special flood hazard area need a floodplain permit.

Local details

Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.

How to apply

LADBS
ZIMAS parcel and zoning lookup
Phone: 311 (213-473-3231)

Common questions

When does a retaining wall need a building permit in Los Angeles?: LADBS exempts only a wall 4 ft or less with level ground behind it, on ground no steeper than 1 in 5. A wall 4 ft or less with level ground behind it, on ground no steeper than 1 in 5, needs no building permit in Los Angeles.
Where do I apply for a retaining wall permit in Los Angeles?: Apply through LADBS, or call 311 (213-473-3231).

Sources

LADBS Information Bulletin P/BC 2026-002, Retaining or Slough Wall (rev. 05-26-2026). Checked 2026-10-22
No building permit is required for Figure 1. Permit is required for Figure 2 and Figure 3. [Figure 1: a wall 4 ft high or less with level ground behind it.] The wall shown in Figure 1 shall not be constructed where the existing slope below or beneath the wa…
44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19
Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...