FAQ - Retaining Walls

When it comes to the longevity of retaining walls, stone masonry walls often top the list. These walls, constructed from natural stone or carefully cut stones, can last over 100 years with minimal maintenance. Their durability is due to the inherent strength of the materials and the skilled craftsmanship involved in their construction. Stone masonry walls resist weathering, erosion, and physical impacts better than most other types. For the best longevity and performance, professional installation and proper drainage are crucial.

Explore stone masonry retaining walls for more information.

Gold Coast City Council requires any retaining wall in excess of 1 metre high to have building approval. Any retaining wall that is less than 1.5 metres away from another building, retaining wall or building structure also requires approval.

All building applications require an engineer’s design. Yes we can organise your design as it is always preferable to work with our own experienced engineering associates.

Functional Benefits of Retaining Walls:

Yes, one of the primary functional benefits of retaining walls is their ability to prevent soil runoff and erosion. By stabilising the soil and holding it in place, retaining walls effectively manage soil movement on sloping terrain, protecting your landscape from erosion and maintaining its integrity.

We can help, by organising an engineering associate to produce a design and relevant forms required for the application.

Note: It is up to the owner of the property to lodge the actual application.

Not generally. The G.C.C.C. requires a minimum of 0.6 metres within your property boundary. The higher the retaining wall is, the more it needs to be set back from the boundary, within your property.

Not generally.*

* For more information on G.C.C.C. requirements and regulations GCCC

There is no easy answer to this. Every site is different whether it is because of access, varying soil conditions, surcharges, and size of wall. We can only accurately price your job after a site inspection, and preferably an onsite meeting. See our “FREE Measure & Quote Service”.

Lifespan and prices can be found on our prices page for; Concrete Retaining Walls, Timber Retaining Walls & Rock Retaining Walls

Retaining wall responsibility on the Gold Coast lies with the property owner whose land benefits from the wall. Maintenance and upkeep fall to this owner.

In Queensland, if your property benefits from the retaining wall, you are responsible for its maintenance and costs. This typically applies if the wall supports your soil.

Queensland regulations state that retaining walls over 1 meter (3 feet) in height usually require council approval. Always verify with local council for specific requirements.

The easiest retaining wall to install is typically a concrete block wall. These walls are simple and cost-effective, especially when filled with concrete and rebar for added strength.

In Queensland, your neighbour can erect a fence without your permission if it is within their property boundary and complies with height regulations.

DIY enthusiasts can build retaining walls up to 3 feet tall with concrete blocks. Taller walls require professional expertise due to complexity and safety concerns.

Yes, proper drainage is essential behind retaining walls to prevent water buildup, which can compromise the wall's integrity and longevity.

A structural engineer is crucial for designing retaining walls, especially for assessing soil stability, drainage, and ensuring the wall meets all safety standards.