Block and Masonry Retaining Walls in Newcastle

What block and masonry retaining wall work in Newcastle actually involves

City of Newcastle's guide says “The installation of a retaining wall is the responsibility of the landowner that has excavated or filled their land”. Where the wall sits on the common boundary, or benefits both properties, “the two adjoining landowners must agree on any proportionate costs. Council cannot act as a mediator in relation to costs”.

Repairing a heritage masonry wall

City of Newcastle's heritage minor-works list treats “re-pointing of masonry and stone walls in a traditional manner and using traditional materials” differently from other repairs. That applies to re-pointing, not to a full rebuild: works already carried out are not treated as minor works, and complying development is not available on land containing a heritage item at all. A rebuild of a heritage masonry retaining wall follows the normal approval path, not the minor-works route.

Height and approval

A masonry wall is exempt only to 600 mm and 1 m from each boundary. Over that it needs engineer certification or a development application to Council. The main page has the full exempt list and the drainage page covers the water behind the wall.

Agree the split of the cost in writing with the neighbour before the footing is poured: the council has said it will not decide it for you.

Block and Masonry Retaining Walls in Newcastle — common questions

Who is responsible for a wall on the boundary?

City of Newcastle says the landowner who excavated or filled their land is responsible for the wall. Where it sits on the common boundary or benefits both properties, the two owners must agree on the costs, and Council cannot act as a mediator.

Can I repoint a heritage masonry wall?

Council's minor-works list treats re-pointing in a traditional manner and with traditional materials differently, but its written confirmation must be received before any work starts, and a full rebuild is not minor work.

How high can a masonry wall be without approval?

No more than 600 mm, and at least 1 m from each lot boundary. Over that it needs an engineer or a development application.