Retaining Walls & Hardscape

Under the Michigan Residential Code, a retaining wall up to 4 feet tall, measured from the bottom of the footing, is on the list of work exempt from a permit. Taller walls are not on that list, and you should ask your building department about any wall that holds back a driveway, slope or other load.

Michigan generally requires a soil erosion and sedimentation control permit for earth changes that disturb one acre or more, or that are within 500 feet of a lake or stream. The permit comes from the county enforcing agency, or from your city, village or township if it runs its own program.

Yes. Digging for the footing counts, and MISS DIG 811 must be contacted at least 3 business days before any digging, whatever the depth. If your contractor does the digging, the contractor makes the call.

Masonry, concrete and excavation are licensed trades for maintenance and alteration contractors in Michigan, and the trades a contractor may perform are listed on the license. Check it with LARA's Find / Verify a BCC Licensed Professional or Business lookup; jobs with a total contract price under $600 are exempt.