Retaining walls
Segmental block walls and terraces that turn a slope into usable, level space.
Retaining walls & pathways · Sacramento area
Walls & paths that stay put.
Sloped yards, worn-out walkways and muddy side yards all come down to the same thing: grade and drainage. DG Landscape Design builds block retaining walls, flagstone and paver paths, steps and stepping pads on a base that's made to last.
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What's included
Built from the base up.
David designs it, prices it in writing, and his own crew builds it. No hand-offs to a separate sub.
Drainage
Drain rock and outlets behind every wall, so water doesn't push it over time.
Paths & steps
Flagstone, pavers, bullnose steps and poured pads set at a comfortable stride.
Clean edges
Borders that hold gravel, planting and turf in place.
Know before you build
Things to plan for.
Taller walls need permits
Walls over 4 feet from the bottom of the footing, or walls holding up a slope, driveway or structure, generally need a building permit under the California Residential Code. David plans the height and terracing with that in mind.
Mind the tree roots
Trenching near a protected oak can need a tree permit in every city we serve. See our guide to tree rules.
Call before you dig
Utility lines get marked through USA North 811 before any wall footing or trench goes in.
Rules change. Confirm with your city, the County or your HOA before you start.
5.0★★★★★ David's Google rating from his past clients
“Neighbors and strangers still stop by to tell us how nice our yard is.”
Vicki W. · full front and backyard overhaul
Questions
Walls & paths FAQ.
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?
It depends on the height and what the wall holds back. Under the California Residential Code, walls over 4 feet from the bottom of the footing, or walls holding up a slope, driveway or structure, generally need a building permit. David checks this during design.
Pavers, flagstone or concrete for a walkway?
Pavers are easy to repair and handle tree roots better, flagstone has the most natural look, and poured pads are the most budget-friendly. Many yards mix two of them.
Why do some walls lean or crack?
Usually water. Without drain rock and a way for water to get out from behind the wall, wet clay soil pushes on it every winter. Drainage is built into every DG Landscape Design wall.
Free site visit
Let's level your yard.
- David comes out himself
- You get a plan and a price before any work starts
- Full backyards typically $20k–$60k