Site Design Standards (SDS)

 

SDS 4.4 Grading & Retaining Walls

Single Family Multi-Family Commercial

PRN

 RP-2 R-2 RP-3 R-3 RP-4 RP-5 RP-6 CP-0 C-0 CP-1 C-1 CP-2 C-2 CP-3 C-3

SDS 4.4.1 Intent.

Designing a development to fit the natural topography of the site generally results in a reduced potential for environmental problems and an improved level of visual interest and variety. To provide planting pockets or terraces for vegetation, the use of retaining walls is encouraged to reduce the steepness of man-made slopes; the use of extensive grading or unusual site improvements, such as large retaining walls, to force a preconceived design onto a particular piece of property is strongly discouraged.

Standard:

SDS 4.4.2 Grading. 

Grading shall conform to the following:

  • The layout of developments shall follow and respect the natural topography of the site.
  • Grading to create a large level lot or site shall be minimized.
  • Berms, channels, swales, and similar man-made changes to the landscape shall be designed and graded to be an integral part of the natural landscape and to provide a smooth transition in changes of slope.

SDS 4.4.3 Slopes.

The maximum slope of any man-made slope shall be 3:1.

SDS 4.4.4 Site Drainage.

Site drainage patterns shall be designed to prevent concentrated surface drainage from collecting on and flowing across pedestrian paths, walks, and sidewalks.

SDS 4.4.5 Retaining Walls. 

Retaining walls shall conform to the following:

  • Retaining walls may support steep slopes but shall not exceed five (5) feet in height from the finished grade. Terracing shall be limited to 4 tiers.
  • The width of the terrace between any two 5-foot retaining walls shall be a minimum of four (4) feet with a maximum slope of 3:1.
  • Terraces   created   between   retaining   walls   shall   be   permanently   landscaped   or revegetated.
  • Retaining walls shall be stone, brick, or stucco walls compatible with the primary building materials; railroad ties, timber, and gabion-type retaining walls are prohibited.

SDS 4.4.6 Retaining Walls & Drainage Easements. 

Most retaining walls are prohibited from being constructed in public drainage easements. Applicants shall contact the Engineering Services Division for additional information about retaining wall restrictions in public drainage easements.

Retaining Walls & Drainage Easements
Drawing of Retaining Walls and Drainage Easements

Effective on: 1/1/1901