Retaining Walls
Rycan Retaining and Earthworks proudly serves Brisbane’s Western Suburbs and the Ipswich region, specialising in the construction of retaining walls and garden edging. As a QBCC Licensed Contractor, we handle every aspect of your project—from design and structural planning to excavation and material supply—ensuring a seamless and high-quality result.
Retaining Services
Transform Your Outdoor Space with Durable Retaining Walls and Garden Edging
Retaining walls and garden edging not only enhance the look of your landscape—they’re built to last. When constructed with quality materials by a QBCC-licensed professional, they can withstand the elements for decades.
At Rycan Retaining and Earthworks, we handle every aspect of your project—from design and structural planning to excavation and material selection. Before the first shovel hits the ground, we ensure everything is in place for a smooth and compliant build.
With over 15 years of experience serving domestic and commercial clients across Brisbane and Ipswich, we understand local council regulations and can recommend the best solution for your property.
Contact Rycan Retaining and Earthworks today for a free consultation and quote. Let’s build something that lasts.
Basic Retaining Wall Laws (QLD)
Triggers for Retaining Wall Building Approval (DA), Siting Variation or Operational Works Permit (OWP) in Queensland
A retaining wall must be approved by Council if:
A retaining wall must be approved by Urban Utilities if:
What does a retaining wall building approval application entail?
Navigating building approvals for retaining walls—whether through your local Council or a utility asset owner—can be complex and time-consuming. Requirements often vary, so partnering with a Building Certifier or QBCC Licensed Builder - Structural Landscaper like Rycan Retaining & Earthworks ensures you meet all regulations efficiently and avoid costly delays or mistakes.
The following documents are commonly required when seeking building approval to construct a retaining wall in the Brisbane City Council or Ipswich City Council regions of Queensland:
Knowing Your Rights and Responsibilities
Retaining walls are not classed as fences under the Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011 (Qld). Unlike dividing fences, which are typically a shared responsibility between neighbours, retaining walls are constructed to support built-up or excavated earth and are generally not a matter of joint responsibility.
Who Is Responsible for a Retaining Wall?
Responsibility for a retaining wall depends on several factors:
- Location: If the wall is entirely on one property, the owner of that property is usually responsible.
- Benefit: The owner who benefits most from the wall—typically the one whose land is being retained—is generally responsible for its maintenance.
- Boundary Position: If the wall straddles the boundary, both neighbours may share responsibility, but not necessarily equally. The extent of benefit to each party is a key consideration.
It’s important to note that there is no automatic 50/50 split in responsibility. Each case is fact-specific and may require legal or professional advice.
Why a Boundary Survey Matters
A licensed surveyor can determine the exact location of the retaining wall in relation to the property boundary. This is essential for:
- Establishing ownership
- Determining responsibility
- Planning any replacement or repair work
Legal and Practical Considerations
- Common Law Duties: Property owners have a duty to prevent foreseeable harm to neighbouring properties. This includes maintaining structures like retaining walls that could pose a risk.
- Dispute Resolution: If neighbours cannot agree on responsibility, mediation or legal advice may be necessary. The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) may become involved if the dispute also affects a dividing fence.
Further Information
For more detailed guidance, visit:
Legal Documents: Notice to neighbours
Form 1 - Notice to contribute for urgent fencing work.
Does your retaining wall require approval?
Check out our comprehensive guide to navigating the laws and processes concerning retaining wall Engineering, Council Building Approval, and Certification in the Brisbane City Council and Ipswich City Council regions.
Rock Retaining Walls
Whether you need a custom-designed sandstone block or bush rock retaining wall, sandstone staircase or a sandstone boulder wall installed quickly, Rycan Retaining and Earthworks delivers efficient, high-quality solutions tailored to your property.
Sandstone and bush rock walls are gravity-based structures, typically requiring minimal to no concrete footings. This makes them one of the least affected materials by recent construction cost increases.
Sandstone is available in various grades. For non-visible walls, cost-effective options are available, while A-grade sandstone offers a premium finish for visible installations. These walls showcase natural tones and layers, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any landscape.
With access for machinery up to 3m wide, our team can construct large retaining walls and level sloped blocks quickly. We also supply fill material at competitive rates when needed.
Rock retaining walls complement most architectural styles and can be softened with integrated planting. Locally sourced from Queensland quarries, sandstone and bush rock are rot- and termite-resistant, offering exceptional durability and long-term value.
Transform Your Outdoor Space with Sandstone Feature Structures
Enhance your outdoor living space with timeless natural elements. Consider installing a fire pit using sandstone blocks, adding a rock staircase, or creating a striking rock feature garden, the possibilities are endless. Whether the sandstone is wheel-sawn, diamond-cut, or bolstered straight from the quarry floor, its natural textures and earthy tones are right on trend. Pair these features with native Australian plants, and your yard will become the envy of the neighbourhood.
Get in touch with Rycan Retaining and Earthworks to create a custom outdoor rock feature that reflects your style and needs.
Competitive Prices with NO 'Hidden Extras'
Concrete Sleeper Retaining Walls
Concrete sleeper retaining walls offer a durable, long-lasting solution that resists splitting and warping—ideal for environments exposed to constant soil and moisture. Their structural integrity plays a critical role in erosion control.
Rycan Retaining and Earthworks partners with local suppliers to deliver tailored, high-quality services. We exclusively use Australian-made materials, ensuring reliability and suitability for each project and budget—never imported or inferior products.
We only use concrete sleepers that are reinforced with dual N12 Reo steel bars for enhanced strength and engineered durability, backed by a 50-year manufacturer's warranty.
Beyond performance, concrete sleepers are available in a variety of colours and profiles to complement the Queensland lifestyle and aesthetic.
Our Retaining Works
Need a quote?
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