Cedar Rapids requires a building permit for retaining walls. The fee is $25, and you'll need to submit a site plan showing distances to property lines and easements.
Yes, retaining walls require a building permit in Cedar Rapids. The city's Building Services Department handles permits for fences and retaining walls at a flat fee of $25 each. You can find permit applications on the city website or contact the department at 500 15th Avenue SW. The phone number for residential permits is 319-286-5939, and you can email residential@cedar-rapids.org with questions.
The city adopted the 2018 International Building Code. Permits are required to make sure your wall is far enough from property lines and outside any utility easements on your property. Even if your wall seems simple, get the permit. Building without one can cause problems if you sell the house later or if a neighbor complains. The permit process also makes you think through the details before you start digging.
The permit application asks for a description of the work and a site plan. Your site plan needs to show existing structures, where the proposed wall will go, and the distances from the wall to property lines, streets, alleys, and easements if you know where they are. You don't need an architect's seal for a typical residential retaining wall, but if you're building something tall or complex, the city may ask for engineered plans.
You can submit your application by email to residential@cedar-rapids.org, by mail to Building Services at 500 15th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404, or through their online Customer Self Service system. Electronic submittals are preferred. If you're sending paper plans, they can't be larger than 11x17 inches. The city aims to process permits within 24 to 48 hours. Pay the $25 fee by check, cashier's check, or money order made out to City Treasurer, or use their online payment option if you set it up in advance.
Retaining walls need to be set back from property lines, though the specific distance can depend on your zoning district and the wall height. Accessory structures under 200 square feet must be at least 3 feet from side and rear property lines and outside any easements. While that rule technically applies to sheds, similar setback thinking applies to walls. If you're planning a tall retaining wall right on your property line, expect the city to require more distance.
Check with the Zoning Department at 319-286-5836 before you finalize plans, especially if your wall will be close to a property line or if you're in a neighborhood with a homeowners association. Cedar Rapids has separate zoning clearance requirements for certain projects. The Development Services Department at 319-286-5780 can answer questions about floodplain rules if your property is near the Cedar River or in a mapped flood zone. Since Cedar Rapids experienced catastrophic flooding in 2008 and 2016, floodplain rules are enforced carefully.
Once your permit is issued, you need to keep the permit card posted and visible from the street while work is happening. Retaining wall permits in Cedar Rapids require inspections. Call 319-286-5831 to schedule inspections during construction. Request inspections at least one business day in advance before 4:00 PM. The inspector needs to see the work before you backfill or cover anything up, so don't bury your drainage tile and gravel until after the inspection.
Permits expire one year after issue, but you can renew them if the work isn't done and nothing about the project has changed. If you run into problems or delays, stay in touch with Building Services. Finishing without a final inspection can cause trouble later. These rules are current as of 2024, but it's always smart to confirm details with the Building Services Department when you're ready to start your project, since ordinances and fees can change.
Also in our network: Cedar Rapids Deck Permits: Rules and Requirements 2024, Cedar Rapids Drainage Permits: Rules and Requirements.
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