Reading · about 9 mi from our shop
Retaining Wall Design & Construction in Reading, MA
Reading sits on rolling hills, and retaining walls are how a sloped yard becomes a flat patio or lawn.
Recent retaining walls by our crew around the North Shore. See more of our work.
Retaining walls in Reading
What to know before you start.
Walls are specifically named as structures in Reading's no-structure zone, 10 feet beyond the 25-foot no-disturb zone next to wetlands. In the historic districts, the guidelines ask that old stone walls be kept intact.
Freestanding stone walls that don't block wildlife movement can qualify as minor projects near resource areas.
Local rules that can affect your retaining walls project.
The no-structure zone
For 10 feet beyond that no-disturb zone, no new structures are allowed. That includes retaining walls, pools and pool equipment, fences, patios, sports courts, driveways and sheds.
Source: Reading Wetlands Protection Regulations ↗West Street & Summer Avenue historic districts
In Reading's local historic district, fences, walls, drives and paths need Historic District Commission review. The guidelines favor wood, stone, brick or iron fences over vinyl and ask that stone walls stay intact. At-grade walks and terraces, and plantings, are excluded.
Source: Reading Historic District Guidelines ↗
We check the current requirements for every project before we start.
Can I rebuild an old stone wall in Reading's historic district?
The guidelines ask that existing stone walls stay intact, so repair is favored over replacement. We'll help with the Historic District Commission application.
Let's talk about your retaining walls in Reading.
Estimates are free. We'll call you back to set up a time to see the property.