Building Approvals for Retaining Wall.

This information applies to new retaining wall and / or replacement of existing retaining walls.

The most important considerations for retaining walls are;

1. Combined Height of Retaining Wall and Fence

Every time we get phone calls regarding retaining walls, our first question to client is whether there is an intention to include fence or not. Invariably, the answer is yes. This affects the building approval process because the combined height of retaining wall and fence almost always exceeds 2m which is the limit for exemption under Queensland Development Code. This therefore triggers an a Relaxation Application through Council. It is to be noted that this relaxation application is not triggered for retaining walls that are not within 1.5m of side boundary setbacks.

The Relaxation Application has a time and cost implication. We recommend that clients allow 3-4 weeks for this application to get through Council.

At CVL Engineers, we facilitate this on behalf of clients.

2. Underground Services such are sewer lines

Any retaining wall construction over or near an underground service such as sewerage is line is required to comply with The Queensland Development Code. QDC MP1.4 specifies the minimum distance as 1.2sq.m otherwise triggering a Referral Application to the relevant authority. QUU (Queensland Urban Utilities) is the authority in Brisbane, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim, and Somerset.

The Relaxation Application has a time and cost implication. We recommend that clients allow 3-4 weeks for this application to get through.

At CVL Engineers, we facilitate this on behalf of clients.

General Requirements for Building Approvals.

The following is a generalised list of items required for a building approval of a retaining wall;

1. Engineering Plans and Form 15 Certificate
2. Soil Testing Report.
3. Builders Details.
4. Build Over Sewer Approvals (where applicable as outlined above).
5. Amenity & Aesthetics Referral with Local Council (where applicable as outlined above).

We trust that you find this information useful. Feel free to leave us a comment below for further clarification.