DiBara Masonry

Hillside Retaining Walls
Los Angeles

Protect your slope with engineering-backed retaining walls built for LA soils, seismic forces, and code requirements. Safety first, drainage correct, inspections ready.

Stone Terraces and Greenery in the Countryside

4350+

Projects completed

4.9

300+ reviews

Our work

More than 100 years building on Quality

With more than 4.300 projects completed we are sharing here some of our completed retaining wall projects

Each wall is built with care, precision, and durability in mind

Honored Nationally, Trusted Locally, Los Angeles’ Best Masonry Team

Recognised by the U.S. Congress and Named Best Masonry Company in Los Angeles 2025 for Unmatched Quality & Craftsmanship

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Residential Services

Professional Hillside Retaining Wall Services in Los Angeles

Hillside properties demand more than standard blockwork. They need engineering, correct drainage, and experienced masons. DiBara Masonry brings four generations of retaining wall expertise across Los Angeles. We partner with licensed engineers when required. We build gravity, cantilevered, and anchored systems sized for soil loads and surcharges.

Our walls follow city codes and inspection steps. Materials include poured concrete, reinforced CMU, and stone veneers over structural cores. Expect clean job sites, clear updates, and a fixed price before work begins.

When Your Slope Needs a Retaining Wall

Look for warning signs on sloped yards and driveways.

  • Soil creep or rutting after rain.

  • Tilting fences above a slope.

  • Cracks near the top of a slope.

  • Patio or parking areas losing support.

  • Water pooling behind existing walls.

Early action lowers risk and cost. An engineered wall restores stability and protects improvements uphill and downhill.

Types of Hillside Retaining Walls in LA Soils

Gravity walls

Heavy concrete or CMU units rely on mass. Best for lower heights or tiered terraces. We size base width, embedment, and batter to resist sliding and overturning.

Cantilevered walls

Reinforced concrete or CMU with a footing and stem. The heel extends into the backfill. Efficient for medium heights with surcharges such as driveways or patios. Requires rebar, grout-filled cells, and a continuous footing.

Anchored systems

Tiebacks, soil nails, or deadmen provide extra resistance for higher loads or limited space. We coordinate with the engineer for anchor type, spacing, and testing.

Drainage and Waterproofing Behind the Wall

Water pressure causes most failures. Each wall receives a drainage plan:

  • Washed gravel backfill with filter fabric.

  • Perforated drain pipe at footing elevation with positive outlet.

  • Weep holes when specified.

  • Waterproofing membranes on the soil side of concrete or CMU.

  • Surface grading to move stormwater away from the wall and structures.

For deep foundations or high water exposure, see our foundation waterproofing page for added protection.

Other Services

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Frequently Asked Questions About Retaining Walls in Los Angeles

Do hillside retaining walls require permits in Los Angeles?

Most engineered walls require permits. Requirements vary by height, surcharge, and location. Verify current rules with LADBS before work begins.

When does an engineer need to design the wall?

Engineering is required for most hillside walls, walls with driveways above, or walls near structures. We coordinate with a licensed engineer when needed.

How do height and surcharge affect design?

More height and added loads increase overturning and sliding forces. The engineer sizes the footing, stem, rebar, and anchors for those loads.

What drainage features reduce failure risk?

Washed gravel backfill, filter fabric, perforated pipe with outlet, and surface grading. Weep holes when specified. Waterproofing on the soil side for concrete or CMU.

How long does construction take?

Duration depends on access, height, length, and inspections. We provide a target schedule after the site visit. No permit timing promises.

What inspections occur during the build?

Typical steps include footing, rebar, grout, and final. LADBS scheduling varies. We prepare for each visit and adjust as required.

What warranty do you offer?

Written workmanship coverage applies. Materials follow manufacturer coverage. Details appear in your contract.

How do you maintain a hillside retaining wall?

Keep drains clear. Direct roof water away from the wall. Inspect for settlement or new cracks after heavy rain or quakes. Contact us for service if changes appear.

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Meet DiBara Masonry, the 4th generation masonry and concrete experts that have been restoring brick, stone, & concrete structures for over 100 years!