If you’re planning to build a retaining wall in Calgary, you might be wondering: do I need a permit? The short answer is: sometimes — and when you do, it’s crucial to get it right.
Permitting isn’t just a formality; it’s an important step to ensure that your retaining wall is safe, structurally sound, and compliant with local regulations. In this guide, we’ll explain when you need a permit, why it matters, and how working with a professional like Simply Stone can make the process simple and stress-free.
When Do You Need a Permit for a Retaining Wall in Calgary?
In Calgary, a permit is required for a retaining wall if:
- The wall is over 1.2 metres (approximately 4 feet) in height at any point.
- The wall supports additional loads, such as a driveway, structure, or sloped landscape.
- The wall affects drainage patterns or neighboring properties.
Even if your wall is under 1.2 metres, the City of Calgary recommends following best practices to ensure stability and drainage. When in doubt, it’s always safer to check with the city or work with a contractor who understands local permitting rules.
Why Are Permits For Retaining Walls Necessary?
Permits protect both property owners and the surrounding community. Here’s why they matter:
- Safety: Properly engineered and permitted walls reduce the risk of collapse, water damage, and soil erosion.
- Compliance: Following regulations ensures you won’t face fines, stop-work orders, or costly repairs later.
- Resale Value: A permitted, professionally installed wall adds value to your property and avoids red flags during home inspections.
An unpermitted or poorly built wall can lead to serious issues — and fixing them later is often much more expensive than doing it right the first time.
How Do I Get A Permit For My Retaining Wall?
If your retaining wall project requires a permit, there are a few key steps involved. You’ll need an engineered design or drawing that meets local standards, along with a completed building permit application submitted to the City of Calgary. It’s also important to ensure compliance with zoning regulations, particularly if the wall is near a property line, a public right-of-way, or a utility easement. Throughout the construction process, the city may require inspections at various stages to verify that the wall is being built according to the approved plans and safety requirements. If you have any questions about this process and require further clarifications, feel free to call our Calgary retaining wall experts at 403-281-7605 for more information.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Permit for a Retaining Wall in Calgary?
The permitting process for a retaining wall in Calgary typically takes anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the project and the current workload at the City of Calgary. Applications that require engineering approval, detailed drawings, or additional reviews may take longer to process. It’s important to plan ahead, as construction cannot legally begin until the permit is approved.
What Happens If You Build a Retaining Wall Without a Permit?
Building a retaining wall without the required permit in Calgary can lead to serious consequences. Homeowners risk facing fines, stop-work orders, or even being required to tear down and rebuild the wall properly — all at their own expense. In some cases, unpermitted structures can also cause legal issues during resale, as home inspectors and real estate lawyers often flag them during the selling process. These complications can delay sales or reduce your property’s value. That’s why working with a knowledgeable contractor like Simply Stone is so important. We ensure every retaining wall project follows the correct legal steps, meets city requirements, and protects you from costly problems down the road — giving you peace of mind from start to finish.
How Simply Stone Makes the Permit Process Easy?
At Simply Stone, we don’t just build beautiful retaining walls — we make the permitting process easy and stress-free. Our experienced team works closely with licensed engineers to create safe, code-compliant designs and handles all permit applications and documentation on your behalf. We coordinate inspections and approvals to keep your project on schedule, ensuring that every step meets City of Calgary requirements. Beyond compliance, we focus on delivering retaining walls that are not only structurally sound but also stunning and perfectly integrated into your landscape. When you work with Simply Stone, you can trust that your retaining wall will be built right — and built to impress.
Navigating permits for retaining walls in Calgary can feel overwhelming, but it’s an essential step to ensure your project is safe, compliant, and built to last. Whether you’re planning a small backyard improvement or a major landscaping project, understanding the permitting process — and working with the right team — makes all the difference.
At Simply Stone, we handle every detail, from engineering and permitting to construction and final inspection. Our experienced team is here to make your retaining wall project smooth, stress-free, and beautifully built. Call Simply Stone at 403-281-7605 to schedule a free consultation and let’s bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship and complete peace of mind.