How Much Does Concrete Retaining Wall Cost in Scotts Valley, CA? (2026)

Average Cost

$79,391–$119,380

Materials

$58,560–$88,125

Labor (Santa Cruz)

$3,464–$5,141

Labor rates in Santa Cruz are +15% compared to Sacramento Metro baseline.

A poured concrete retaining wall provides superior strength for holding back soil on sloped properties. The installation includes footing excavation, rebar cage assembly, form construction, concrete pouring, waterproofing the back face, installing drainage gravel and a perforated drain pipe, and backfilling. In NorCal's hilly terrain — particularly in Placer, El Dorado, and eastern Sacramento County — retaining walls are frequently needed for lot development and erosion control.

NorCal's wet winters make drainage behind the wall critical. Design for heavy rain events and ensure positive drainage away from structures.

Scotts Valley is located in Santa Cruz County (Santa Cruz). Wooded mountain community between Santa Cruz and San Jose with suburban family homes. The local utility provider is PG&E.

Cost Calculator

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City

Linear feet

Materials Included

Ready-mix concrete (4000 PSI)180 cubic yard

$25,200–$33,300

Rebar (#4 and #5)7500 linear foot

$6,000–$10,500

Plywood forms and bracing450 sheet (4x8 ft)

$15,750–$24,750

Perforated drain pipe (4-inch)1050 linear foot

$1,260–$2,625

Drainage gravel (3/4-inch clean)120 cubic yard

$5,400–$8,400

Waterproofing membrane90 roll (100 sq ft)

$4,950–$8,550

Labor(Santa Cruz +15%)

Concrete mason / formwork carpenter36h @ $57–$86/hr

$2,070–$3,105

General laborer24h @ $32–$46/hr

$773–$1,104

Excavation operator9h @ $69–$103/hr

$621–$931

Contractor Markup28%

0%Avg 30%100%

Materials

$58,560–$88,125

Labor

$3,464–$5,141

Markup

$17,367–$26,114

Estimated Total Cost

$79,391 – $119,380

$2,646–$3,979 per unit

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California Building Code

Walls over 4 feet require engineered plans and permits. Seismic design per CBC Chapter 18 is required in NorCal.

Project Timeline

Engineering & permits

1–2 weeks

Obtain structural engineering plans (required for walls over 4 feet) and pull building permits.

Excavation & footing

1–2 days

Excavate for the footing (typically 12–18 inches deep), set rebar cage, and pour footing.

Forming & wall pour

2–3 days

Build wall forms, tie rebar vertically from footing, and pour wall concrete in lifts.

Waterproofing & drainage

1 day

Strip forms, apply waterproofing membrane to back face, install drain pipe and gravel.

Backfill & finish

1 day

Backfill behind wall in compacted lifts, grade surface drainage, and finish exposed face.

Materials Breakdown

Material	Qty	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
Ready-mix concrete (4000 PSI)	180	cubic yard	$140–$185	$25,200–$33,300
Rebar (#4 and #5)	7500	linear foot	$0.8–$1.4	$6,000–$10,500
Plywood forms and bracing	450	sheet (4x8 ft)	$35–$55	$15,750–$24,750
Perforated drain pipe (4-inch)	1050	linear foot	$1.2–$2.5	$1,260–$2,625
Drainage gravel (3/4-inch clean)	120	cubic yard	$45–$70	$5,400–$8,400
Waterproofing membrane	90	roll (100 sq ft)	$55–$95	$4,950–$8,550

Concrete Retaining Wall in Scotts Valley — FAQ

Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?+

In most NorCal jurisdictions, retaining walls over 4 feet tall (measured from bottom of footing to top of wall) require a building permit and engineered plans.

How long does a concrete retaining wall last?+

A properly built and waterproofed concrete retaining wall can last 50–100 years. Adequate drainage behind the wall is the most critical factor for longevity.

What causes retaining walls to fail?+

Poor drainage is the #1 cause. Water buildup behind the wall creates hydrostatic pressure that can cause cracking, tilting, or collapse. Always install a drainage system.

Poured concrete vs. block retaining wall — which is better?+

Poured concrete is stronger and better for taller walls or heavy soil loads. Block walls are more cost-effective for shorter walls (under 4 feet) and easier for curved designs.