Commission recommends measuring retaining walls from footing to top to match Utah code; >4-foot walls require permits

Santaquin planning commissioners on Jan. 27 unanimously recommended a code amendment that changes how retaining walls are measured in city code: measurement will be from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, mirroring Utah Code 19.95.100.

Staff explained the proposed edits apply across sections (fences, walls and hedges; commercial zone; hillside development overlay zone) wherever retaining walls are referenced, and that the change aligns city measurement practice with the state standard. Staff said the state rule requires measurement from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, whereas the city’s existing code described measurement from the top of the wall to finish grade.

Commissioners asked whether that change could incentivize builders to skirt footing requirements by keeping total wall height under 4 feet (for example building to 3 feet 11 inches) and discussed the safety implications. Staff and commissioners noted that any wall over 4 feet measured from footing to top requires structural engineering and a building permit and that property owners bear responsibility for failing structures affecting neighboring properties.

Commissioner Nixon moved to recommend approval; Commissioner Waite seconded. The motion carried unanimously and will be forwarded to the City Council for adoption.