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Board to treat retaining walls over 4 feet as structures requiring permits and site-plan review
Summary
After repeated site issues, the board agreed to define retaining walls over 4 feet as "structures" for ordinance purposes, require engineered plans and a land-use permit for walls above that height, and draft a definition for "accessory structure."
The Lincoln Planning Board agreed to clarify how retaining walls are classified in the town ordinance and to require permitting and review for taller walls.
Members discussed repeated failures of unpermitted rock/retaining walls and the risk to neighboring properties. Member 3 said the ordinance should treat retaining walls that exceed 4 feet as structures and require land-use permits and engineered plans: "All retaining walls that exceed 4 feet in height require a land use permit," they stated.
The board debated whether retaining walls are accessory or primary structures for setback purposes; after discussion members directed staff to add a definition that treats any retaining wall over 4 feet as a regulated structure, subject to setback rules and site-plan review when engineering or neighbor impacts are likely.
Members also asked that staff clarify when an engineered wall triggers site-plan review and to include clear instructions in the ordinance so applicants and staff know when a land-use permit or full site-plan application is required. The board did not change height thresholds at the meeting but asked staff to draft precise definition language for a future vote.
