Official Georgia City and County Regulations for Retaining Wall Building Permits and Engineering Requirements

Below is an information table of Georgia counties and cities with the height of a retaining wall that requires permitting and engineering. We have also included the telephone number for each city or county, and in some cases, the building inspector. We make every effort to ensure this information is accurate, however, as codes and regulations change over time, always verify the information with the appropriate city or county personnel in which you plan to build a retaining wall.

Crosstie, Wood & Landscape Timber Retaining Walls

Most Georgia cities and counties have banned the use of railroad crossties altogether as well as specialty wood and landscape timbers for retaining walls over three feet in height.

Poured Concrete & Modular Block Retaining Walls

Poured concrete and modular block retaining walls may be approved when the wall cannot be seen from the street.

Concrete Masonry Retaining Walls

When visible from the street, the preferred material is concrete masonry retaining walls which feature painted stucco, brick or stacked stone. Unlike the other retaining wall materials, concrete masonry retaining walls actually enhance beauty and add value to your property.

N/A = Not Applicable
M = Mandatory