March 15, 2023 - Council Adopts New Retaining Wall Regulations

The Municipality of North Cowichan has adopted new retaining wall regulations, effective March 15, 2023. The changes to zoning and building bylaws are intended to make it easier to install low retaining walls without permits or other Municipal approvals while also establishing regulations for taller retaining walls that could impact privacy and safety.

The new regulations encompass:

• height restrictions in line with fence height regulations

• measurement criteria

• regulations for retaining walls combined with fences

• building permits and engineering required for walls taller than 1.2 metres

• specifications for terraced retaining walls and guard rails