For a wall over 7 feet, yes. Retaining walls over 3 feet need an engineer's design and city approval, and work in the street right-of-way needs its own permit. A standard side or rear wall within the limits may not, but pool barriers and HOA approvals are separate questions. This reflects our reading of the city code as of November 2026.
Common triggers
- Walls or fences over 7 feet.
- Retaining walls over 3 feet, designed by a civil or structural engineer.
- Anything in the right-of-way, which needs a city permit.
- Pool barriers, reviewed through the pool permit.
- Gate operators and other electrical work.
Do I still need my HOA?
Usually. City approval and association approval are separate.
Who to ask
The City of Peoria Development and Engineering and Planning and Zoning staff answer permit questions. We confirm for your lot at the estimate.
Sources, as of November 2026: City of Peoria Zoning Ordinance section 21-312 (fences and walls) and City Code section 20-257 (retaining walls), as published in the Peoria city code on American Legal Publishing; confirm the current text with the City of Peoria Planning and Zoning Division. General information, not legal advice.
Updated November 2026