Long Beach Guide to Retaining Walls: What to Know Before You Build
Retaining Walls in Long Beach Require More Than Just Blocks
Building a retaining wall in Long Beach, CA isn’t the same as building one inland. Between coastal moisture, clay-heavy soils, older neighborhood lots, and tight property lines, a wall needs proper engineering and drainage — not just a stack of blocks.
Homeowners in Belmont Shore, Naples, Bixby Knolls, California Heights, Wrigley, and East Long Beach often install retaining walls to:
level sloped front or back yards
create usable patio space
support driveways and walkways
prevent soil movement near foundations
replace failing railroad tie or old block walls
A poorly built wall can lean, crack, or trap water — leading to expensive repairs. This guide covers what Long Beach homeowners should know before starting a retaining wall project.
1. Long Beach Soil & Drainage Matter More Than the Wall Itself
Much of Long Beach has:
clay-based soils that expand and contract
areas with high groundwater
coastal moisture and salt air
older fill soil in historic neighborhoods
Without proper drainage and base preparation, even a new retaining wall can fail. Quality walls include:
compacted base material
gravel backfill
perforated drain lines
weep holes
proper grading away from structures
This is especially important in neighborhoods like Naples and Belmont Shore, where water tables are higher and lots sit close to canals and the ocean.
2. Do You Need a Permit for a Retaining Wall in Long Beach?
In many cases — yes.
The City of Long Beach typically requires permits when:
a retaining wall is over a certain height
the wall supports a driveway or structure
it’s near a property line
significant grading is involved
Skipping permits can cause problems later when selling your home or if a neighbor disputes the wall location. A professional Long Beach retaining wall contractor can help determine:
when plans are required
engineering needs
setback rules
drainage requirements
3. Best Retaining Wall Materials for Long Beach
Concrete Block Walls
Most common for durability and strength. Ideal for structural walls and modern finishes.
Natural Stone Walls
Great for Belmont Shore and California Heights homes with classic architecture.
Stucco-Finished Walls
Blend well with Spanish and coastal-style properties throughout Long Beach.
Segmental Block Systems
Engineered interlocking blocks that allow movement without cracking — excellent for clay soil.
4. Replacing Old Long Beach Retaining Walls
Many Long Beach homes still have:
aging railroad tie walls
unreinforced block walls
crumbling concrete
walls without drainage
Signs your wall may need replacement:
leaning or bowing
cracks along the face
soil washing out
water pooling behind the wall
fence pulling away from the top
5. Planning a Retaining Wall the Right Way (avoid mistakes!)
Every Long Beach property is different. Before recommending a design, we look at:
soil conditions and slope
drainage paths and runoff
proximity to foundations and driveways
property lines and access
height and structural requirements
how the wall will be used long-term
This evaluation determines the right materials, base preparation, and drainage system — the factors that actually decide whether a wall lasts 5 years or 30.
Cheap installs often skip:
proper compaction
drain lines
reinforced footing
correct backfill
That’s why many Long Beach homeowners end up replacing walls that are only a few years old.
Work With a Local Long Beach Retaining Wall Contractor
Jonakee Landscaping builds retaining walls designed for Long Beach conditions — with proper drainage, reinforced bases, and finishes that match your home.
We help with:
design and layout
material selection
permits when needed
full installation
