how tall can i build a retaining wall
- Kieran Dakin
- Jun 12
- 5 min read
A Toowoomba Guide by All West Site Worx
If you're considering building a retaining wall on your property, one of the most important questions you'll need answered is this: how tall can I build a retaining wall? In Toowoomba and the greater Queensland area, there are very specific regulations, guidelines, and best practices that homeowners and builders must follow. This blog aims to demystify those rules while offering expert advice based on years of landscaping experience across South East Queensland.
Whether you’re planning to level your yard, hold back soil, or create a functional and aesthetic boundary, this article will help you understand what's allowed, what's recommended, and how to get started with the right team.
Understanding Retaining Wall Height Restrictions in Toowoomba
In most council areas, including the Toowoomba Region, the maximum height you can build a retaining wall without approval is one metre. Once you exceed that height, you’ll need formal approvals, such as:
Council Development Approval (DA)
Structural Engineering Plans
Neighbour Consultation if the wall is near a boundary
The height limit is set to ensure the structural integrity of the wall and protect neighbouring properties from potential collapses, erosion, or flooding issues.
If you're unsure what applies to your property, All West Site Worx can handle all the necessary assessments and paperwork. We offer end-to-end landscaping services in Toowoomba, including retaining wall construction, council applications, and design planning.
When Is Approval Required for a Retaining Wall?
There are several key triggers that mean you will likely need council approval or input from a qualified engineer:
Height is over 1 metre
Wall supports a structure or driveway
The wall is built on or near a boundary line
The soil retained is unstable or on a slope
You are disturbing drainage lines or natural flow paths
For walls that exceed 1 metre or meet the above conditions, we highly recommend engaging with an experienced landscaping team like All West Site Worx. We ensure your wall is not just legal but safe, functional, and built to last.
Ideal Height for DIY Retaining Walls
If you’re doing a DIY retaining wall, it's best to keep the height at under 600mm. This avoids most structural risks and simplifies the build. However, just because a wall is under a metre doesn’t mean it won’t fail if constructed poorly.
At All West Site Worx, we regularly rebuild failed DIY jobs where there was no proper drainage, footing, or support. If in doubt, reach out to our team for a consultation. We can either support your build or take the reins and deliver a polished result for you.
What Affects Retaining Wall Height Limitations?
Understanding what influences retaining wall height limits helps with your planning. Key factors include:
Soil Conditions
Clay-based soils retain water and exert more pressure on a wall, requiring stronger construction. Sandy soils drain better but may shift more easily. We conduct a full site assessment before recommending wall types and heights.
Slope of the Land
Sloped blocks often require tiered or stepped retaining walls. This design can help you legally manage the height without needing a single high wall. We specialise in multi-tier landscaping that combines function with style.
Proximity to Structures
Walls near homes, pools, sheds, or driveways require added care and likely need structural certification. Even if the wall is under one metre, nearby structures change its risk profile.
Drainage and Water Flow
Poor drainage behind a wall causes hydrostatic pressure. That’s the number one cause of retaining wall failure. We install drainage solutions like agi pipes and gravel backfill on every job as standard.
What Type of Retaining Wall Is Best?
The type of wall you need will depend on the height, budget, and aesthetic goals. At All West Site Worx, we offer:
Timber Sleeper Retaining Walls
Perfect for lower-height applications. Affordable, quick to install, and attractive in natural landscapes. Best kept under 1 metre unless structurally reinforced.
Concrete Sleeper Retaining Walls
Durable, long-lasting, and ideal for taller or high-pressure installations. Can go over 1 metre when designed by an engineer. A popular choice for large-scale residential and commercial projects.
Block Retaining Walls
These are modular and visually appealing. They offer a professional finish and can often be constructed to higher specifications with engineering approval.
Retaining Wall Engineering and Certification
If your wall requires engineering, our team handles it all. We work with local Toowoomba engineers and council offices to deliver:
Certified wall designs
Soil testing
Drainage planning
DA and BA submission
Neighbour boundary reports if required
We ensure everything is ready to go so your project doesn’t stall.
Common Retaining Wall Mistakes to Avoid
A poorly built retaining wall is an expensive headache. Here are the top issues we see:
Building too close to a boundary without approval
Skipping drainage installation
Using the wrong material for the height or soil
Building without levelling the base properly
Not compacting backfill or using geo-grid reinforcement
Don’t take the risk. Our excavation and site preparation team ensures a solid foundation before we even lay the first sleeper.
How We Build Retaining Walls at All West Site Worx
Here’s a quick breakdown of how we deliver top-tier retaining wall projects in Toowoomba:
Site Consultation & Design Planning
Soil and Drainage Assessment
Material Selection Based on Height & Budget
Excavation & Footing Preparation
Drainage Installation (Agi pipes, gravel, weep holes)
Retaining Wall Build
Council Sign-Off (if required)
Clean-up and Optional Landscaping Finishes
We also provide integrated landscape construction such as turfing, paving, and garden bed design to complete the look.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Retaining Wall?
Costs vary based on height, materials, and access. As a guide:
Under 1m timber wall: $250 to $400 per lineal metre
Concrete sleeper wall: $350 to $600 per metre
Engineered wall over 1 metre: Starts from $500 per metre and up
Need an accurate quote? Contact us for a free on-site consultation in Toowoomba.
Why Choose All West Site Worx for Retaining Walls in Toowoomba?
With over 10 years’ landscaping and excavation experience, we combine quality workmanship with local council knowledge and full-service delivery. We don’t just build walls — we shape properties for durability, safety, and beauty.
Licensed & Insured
Council-Compliant Work
Engineering Options Available
On-Time, On-Budget Projects
Full Range of Landscaping Services
We offer more than just retaining walls. Explore our services:
Earthworks & Excavation
Turf Laying
Paving & Pathways
Build It Right Build It Once
If you’re still wondering how tall can I build a retaining wall, the short answer is: up to 1 metre without approval but it pays to get expert advice no matter what. Cutting corners might save money short term, but the long-term risks to safety, property value, and compliance just aren’t worth it.
Let All West Site Worx guide your project from start to finish. We’re trusted Toowoomba locals who care about every detail and back our work with skill, experience, and the right tools for the job.
Ready to Build a Retaining Wall in Toowoomba?
📞 Call Rob on 0421 088 658
Request a Free Quote Today
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