Wisconsin Retaining Wall Permit Requirements

Statewide Building Code

Wisconsin enforces the Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) for one- and two-family dwellings, which incorporates the 2015 International Residential Code (IRC) with state-specific amendments. The UDC is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). Local municipalities may have additional requirements or amendments.

R404.4 Retaining Walls

According to IRC Section R404.4:

• Retaining walls not laterally supported at the top and retaining more than 48 inches (1219 mm) of unbalanced fill must be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practices to ensure stability against overturning, sliding, excessive foundation pressure, and water uplift.
  
• Retaining walls exceeding 24 inches (610 mm) in height that resist lateral loads in addition to soil (such as from adjacent structures or slopes) also require engineering design.
  

These requirements ensure the safety and structural integrity of retaining walls under various load conditions.

When Is a Retaining Wall Permit Required?

Permit requirements for retaining walls in Wisconsin vary by municipality. Generally:

• Retaining walls over 4 feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) typically require a building permit and must be designed by a licensed engineer.
  
• Retaining walls 4 feet or less may be exempt from permits, provided they do not support a surcharge (e.g., adjacent structures, slopes, or driveways).
  

For example:

• In Brookfield, a retaining wall over 5 feet in height or closer than 1 foot to the lot line requires Plan Commission approval for appearance, materials, and location.
  
• In West Allis, retaining walls less than 5 feet in height do not require a permit.
  

It’s essential to consult your local building department to determine specific requirements for your project.

Front Yard Setback Requirements

Setback requirements for retaining walls are determined by local zoning ordinances and can vary between municipalities. For instance:

• In Madison, screening fences or hedges in the front yard setback must not exceed four feet in height.
  
• In Green Bay, fences or walls in the front yard setback must comply with vision triangle requirements and height restrictions.
  

It’s crucial to consult your local planning or zoning department to determine specific setback requirements for your property.

Local Jurisdiction Requirements

Milwaukee

• Permit Requirement: Retaining walls over 4 feet in height typically require a building permit and must be designed by a licensed engineer.
  
• Process: Applications can be submitted through the Milwaukee Development Center.
  

Madison

• Permit Requirement: Retaining walls over 4 feet in height require a building permit.
  
• Process: Applications are managed by the City of Madison Development Services Center.
  

Green Bay

• Permit Requirement: Retaining walls over 4 feet in height often require permits and engineering approval.
  
• Process: Applications can be submitted through the Green Bay Community and Economic Development Department.
  

Kenosha

• Permit Requirement: Application for a retaining wall permit must include plans approved by a licensed civil engineer.
  
• Process: Applications can be submitted through the City of Kenosha Building Inspection Department.
  

Racine

• Permit Requirement: Building permits are required for retaining walls.
  
• Process: Applications can be submitted through the City of Racine Building Department.
  

In Wisconsin, retaining walls over 4 feet in height or those supporting additional loads typically require a building permit and must be designed by a licensed professional engineer. Setback requirements and permit exemptions vary by municipality. Learn more about our engineering services in Wisconsin here.