If you're planning to build a retaining wall on your property in Utah, it's important to know whether you need a permit—and what kind of requirements your local county has. While small retaining walls for decorative purposes may not need approval, many retaining wall projects do require permits, engineered plans, and inspections, especially in sloped or heavily populated areas like Heber, Park City, and other Utah County cities.

This post breaks down what you need to know about retaining wall permits in Utah, along with specific information for Wasatch County, Summit County, and Utah County.

When Do You Need a Permit for a Retaining Wall in Utah?

Each city or county can have slightly different requirements, but in general, you'll need a permit if:

• The retaining wall is over 4 feet tall (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall).
  
• The wall is supporting a surcharge, like a driveway, building, or slope.
  
• You are building multiple tiered walls or walls close to property lines.
  
• You are installing a wall that affects drainage patterns or involves excavation near utilities.
  

Even if your wall is shorter than 4 feet, it’s a good idea to check with your local building department before you begin. Rules can vary based on the slope of your land, proximity to structures, and whether the wall is decorative or load-bearing.

Why Permits Matter for Retaining Walls

Permits help ensure your wall is built to code and can safely support the soil behind it. Without proper permits or engineered plans, walls can fail—leading to erosion, water damage, or even collapsed structures. This is especially important in places like Heber, Park City, and Utah County, where snow melt and mountainous terrain put added pressure on soil and walls.

County-by-County Breakdown

Wasatch County

In areas like Heber and Midway, Wasatch County generally requires a permit for any retaining wall over 4 feet tall or those supporting a load (like a building, driveway, or slope). The county may also require:

• A geotechnical report for large walls on sloped land.
  
• Engineered drawings for walls with structural requirements.
  
• Site plans showing drainage flow and impact on surrounding areas.
  

Because Wasatch County includes many hillside homes and new construction areas, local officials often review retaining wall plans carefully for erosion control and stormwater impact.

Grading Instructions in Wasatch County

Midway Building Permits

Summit County

Homeowners in Park City, Kamas, and other Summit County towns will likely need a permit for retaining walls above 4 feet in height or walls that alter drainage or slope stability. Additional considerations include:

• Engineering approval for walls with tiered systems.
  
• Drainage plans to prevent runoff issues in high-snow areas.
  
• Minimum setbacks from property lines or public easements.
  

The county prioritizes environmental concerns and wants to ensure walls don’t disrupt the natural flow of water or increase the risk of landslides, especially on steeper terrain.

Summit County Building Permits 

Summit Country Ordinance

UtahFencing, Walls, and Retaining Walls

Utah County

In Pleasant Grove, Spanish Fork, Salem, and other Utah County cities, retaining wall regulations depend on the city, but most follow the International Building Code (IBC). Permits are usually required for:

• Walls taller than 4 feet from footing to top.
  
• Walls close to buildings or public walkways.
  
• Tiered systems where the lower wall supports additional height.
  

Some cities may also require zoning approval or architectural review if the wall affects curb appeal or sits near the public right-of-way.

Drainage Requirements

No matter where you build in Utah, proper drainage is critical for retaining wall longevity and safety. Many permitting authorities will require:

• Drain pipes or weep holes to relieve water pressure.
  
• A clear plan for runoff direction and stormwater management.
  
• Gravel backfill or geotextile fabric for drainage efficiency.
  

Inadequate drainage is one of the main reasons retaining walls fail. During winter, water trapped behind a wall can freeze and expand, putting pressure on the structure. That’s why local permitting offices will likely want to see drainage details before issuing approval.

When Is Engineering Required?

You may need engineered drawings for your wall if:

• The wall exceeds 4 feet in height.
  
• The wall is part of a tiered system.
  
• The wall supports a surcharge, like a structure or vehicle.
  
• You’re building in an area with known landslide risk or poor soils.
  

Hiring an engineer may sound like an extra step, but it helps ensure your wall won’t shift, crack, or fail over time—especially in areas like Park City or Heber where snow and slope can create unpredictable conditions.

Can I Build a Retaining Wall Myself?

For small decorative walls (under 3 feet), many homeowners choose DIY installation. However, for anything structural, it’s wise to hire a professional—especially if excavation, engineering, or permitting is involved.

At Regal Service, we specialize in retaining walls built to meet local building codes and terrain conditions. We serve homeowners throughout Wasatch County, Summit County, Utah County, and beyond, providing:

• Permitted and code-compliant walls
  
• Excavation services for tough terrain or rocky backyards
  
• Integrated landscaping and erosion control

If you’re planning to build a retaining wall in Utah, don’t skip the permitting process. Whether you're in Heber, Park City, or Spanish Fork, getting a permit (when required) will ensure your wall is safe, durable, and built to last.

Still unsure if you need a permit or what kind of wall is right for your yard? Regal Service is here to help. We’ll walk you through the design, permitting, excavation, and construction—so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Ready to get started on your retaining wall project? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn what’s required in your area.