Retaining Walls and When a Building Approval is Required

Retaining walls help manage soil stability, prevent erosion, and enhance outdoor spaces. However, depending on the wall’s height, structural impact, and location, you may require a building approval to construct a retaining wall in Queensland.

When is Building Approval Required?
Retaining walls need building approval, unless they meet all the following criteria:
⦁ less than 1.0m high
⦁ further than 1.5m to a building or another retaining wall
⦁ only support the soil behind the wall, nothing above.
⦁ not part of a pool fencing
⦁ combined wall and fence height is less than 2.0m
⦁ not built over a service (sewer or stormwater)
⦁ meets structural requirements
⦁ not in an easement or covenant area
⦁ not in a waterfront or oceanfront setback area.

Walls that exceed the above criteria will require building approval and may also require Referral Agency Assessment of the local council. Thomas Sear Certification can take care of any referral requirement liaison needed for projects.