Residential / commercial scope
Both
A low garden or slough wall under 3 feet that holds back no surcharge often needs no permit. (Anything taller, or any wall retaining soil, is a retaining wall and needs plans.)
Category
Outdoor
Plans required?
No
Where to go
ePlanLA
Over-the-counter?
Over-the-counter when a permit is needed; many low walls need no permit at all
Likely clearances
Zoning (if a permit is needed)
Residential vs commercial
A residential garden or slough wall under 3 feet that holds back no surcharge often needs no permit. Anything taller, or any wall retaining soil, is a retaining wall and needs plans - see "Build a retaining wall." Commercial frontages may add zoning and corner-visibility review.
Search keywords
garden wall, slough wall, low wall, planter wall, freestanding wall, masonry
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