A retaining wall is designed to hold back filling soil or to support excavation work.
You may need a Planning Permit, Building Permit or both to build a retaining wall.
How to use this guide
To help you work out which permits you need, begin at Step 1 and answer the questions one at a time. You may be asked to look at property zoning, measure the wall, and assess the wall's position in relation to property boundaries.
Before you begin
Before finalising your design:
- Check whether your project involves removing, pruning or carrying out works near a protected tree. You may need a permit for the tree works.
- Check for easements on your property. When an easement is obstructed, it can prevent important maintenance work and block the flow of stormwater. If your plans impact an easement, it may be necessary to modify the plans.
- See if the property is listed under Schedule to Clause 51.01 Specific Sites and Exclusions. If the property is listed, contact Statutory Planning on (03) 9278 4888 to find out about special restrictions and exemptions that apply.
Examples of retaining walls
More information
For information about planning and Planning Permits, contact our Statutory Planning team on (03) 9278 4888 or at [email protected].
For information about building and Building Permits, contact our Building Services team on (03) 9278 4999 or at [email protected].