PlainPermit

Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Boston, MA?

Short answer: We could not confirm from an official source whether a retaining wall needs a permit in Boston, MA; check with City of Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD) before you start.

Last verified: · Confidence: low · Status: Unverified, confirm locally

Not legal advice. Always confirm with your local building department. Rules change, and your parcel's zoning, HOA, historic district, floodplain or utility work can change the answer. We show the official source and the date we last checked it so you can verify for yourself.
Unverified, confirm locally Confidence: low

Unverified: Boston's contractor table lists exterior retaining walls under 4 ft but does not say whether a permit is needed.

Note: Unverified, confirm locally.

Cost

Fee not extracted; see Boston Inspectional Services. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.boston.gov/permitting/permits/short-form-permits

Where to apply

City of Boston Inspectional Services Department (online permitting portal)

Permitting authority: City of Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD). Applies inside the City of Boston. Massachusetts uses a statewide building code; Boston zoning and Landmarks/historic districts add requirements. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

Verified: · Status: unverified · Confidence: low

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Other projects in Boston

Retaining wall permits in other cities

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