Can I Build My Retaining Wall on the Property Boundary in Adelaide?

Yes — in many cases you can, but you need to follow South Australian regulations, council rules, and the Development Act 1993 before starting work. The law requires that retaining walls are designed to allow for possible future excavation on the lower side (up to 600 mm), and certain boundaries have minimum setback requirements.

Check Your Boundary Location First

Before you dig, you must confirm exactly where your property lines are.Ways to verify:

• Check your Certificate of Title and house plans

• Hire a licensed surveyor (we can arrange this for you)

• Look for recent fence installations with boundary markers

If your wall is several metres away from the boundary, you may not need exact measurements — but if it’s anywhere near the line, council may require a building permit.

Minimum Setbacks in Australia

• In some parts of Australia, retaining walls must be at least 600 mm from the boundary

• Other states and councils require 900 mm clearance

• Adelaide’s rules vary by council area — always check before building

For front boundaries in South Australia:

• If your property is larger than 450 m², your wall should not exceed 1 metre in height within 6 metres of the road

Building Directly on the Boundary

If you want the wall right on the property line:

1. You must get written agreement from your neighbour

2. Council approvals and permits will be required

3. Costs may be shared between both parties, depending on who benefits most from the wall

4. You must prove:

   • The wall won’t affect the stability of the neighbour’s soil

   • Drainage is sufficient to prevent water damage

   • The wall supports the natural lay of the land

If one property benefits more from the retaining wall, council may require that owner to pay a larger share.

Why Use Square Gardens for Boundary Walls

At Square Gardens, we:

• Organise surveys to confirm your boundary lines

• Manage council approvals and permits

• Design retaining walls that meet SA standards and neighbour agreements

• Build in compliance with engineering, drainage, and soil stability requirements

  
  

📞 Call Square Gardens on 0425 015 911 for expert retaining wall advice, site assessments, and fast quotes on concrete sleeper, timber sleeper, and gabion walls in Adelaide.