Redondo Beach Guide to Retaining Walls: What to Know Before You Build
Retaining Walls in Redondo Beach Require More Than Just Blocks
Building a retaining wall in Redondo 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 North Redondo, South Redondo, the Avenues, and the Hollywood Riviera 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, shift, or trap water — leading to costly structural issues. This guide covers what Redondo Beach homeowners should know before starting a retaining wall project.
1. Redondo Beach Soil & Drainage Matter More Than the Wall Itself
Much of Redondo Beach has:
sandy and clay-based soils
coastal moisture and salt air exposure
hillside terrain in areas like the Riviera
older fill soil in established 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 hillside and Riviera areas, where elevation changes and runoff can place additional pressure on walls.
2. Do You Need a Permit for a Retaining Wall in Redondo Beach?
In many cases — yes.
The City of Redondo Beach typically requires permits when:
a retaining wall is over a certain height
the wall supports a driveway, slope, or structure
it’s installed near a property line
grading or drainage changes are involved
Skipping permits can cause problems later when selling your home or if a neighbor disputes the wall location. A professional Redondo Beach retaining wall contractor can help determine:
when plans or engineering are required
setback rules
drainage requirements
structural reinforcement needs
3. Best Retaining Wall Materials for Redondo Beach
Concrete Block Walls
Most common for durability and strength. Ideal for structural walls and modern finishes.
Natural Stone Walls
Great for coastal-style homes and properties in the Hollywood Riviera.
Stucco-Finished Walls
Blend well with Spanish and contemporary South Bay architecture.
Segmental Block Systems
Engineered interlocking systems that allow slight movement without cracking — excellent for coastal soil conditions.
4. Replacing Old Redondo Beach Retaining Walls
Many Redondo Beach homes still have:
aging railroad tie walls
unreinforced block walls
cracked or deteriorating concrete
walls built without proper drainage
Signs your wall may need replacement:
leaning or bowing
visible cracks
soil washing out
water pooling behind the wall
fences separating from the top of the wall
5. Planning a Retaining Wall the Right Way (avoid mistakes!)
Every Redondo Beach property is different. Before recommending a design, we look at:
soil conditions and slope
drainage flow and runoff patterns
proximity to foundations and driveways
property lines and site access
wall height and structural requirements
long-term functionality and aesthetics
This assessment determines the right materials, base preparation, and drainage system — the factors that decide whether a wall lasts 5 years or 30.
Cheap installs often skip:
proper compaction
drain lines
reinforced footing
correct backfill materials
That’s why many Redondo Beach homeowners end up replacing walls that are only a few years old.
Work With a Local Redondo Beach Retaining Wall Contractor
Jonakee Landscaping builds retaining walls designed for Redondo Beach conditions — with proper drainage, reinforced bases, and finishes that match your home and landscape.
We help with:
design and layout
material selection
permits when needed
full installation
