Retaining Wall Cost in Des Moines 2026
Retaining Wall in Des Moines costs between $2,981 and $13,910 in 2026, with the average around $6,458. Des Moines pricing runs roughly at the US national average. Construction of a retaining wall with excavation, a gravel base, poured concrete or block, reinforcement, and drainage behind the wall. Includes backfill and grading.
What retaining wall includes in Des Moines
Construction of a retaining wall with excavation, a gravel base, poured concrete or block, reinforcement, and drainage behind the wall. Includes backfill and grading.
Typical time on site: 3 to 5 days. Local labor rate: $24/hour for an experienced concrete pro.
What changes the price of retaining wall in Des Moines
- Wall length and height
- Block versus poured concrete
- Drainage system
- Excavation and backfill
- Soil and slope conditions
A retaining wall quote priced off statewide averages will be off by 10 to 20 percent for Des Moines, because the metro has its own labor pool, material delivery distances, and permit timelines.
Des Moines climate and demand for concrete
A humid continental climate with cold, snowy winters, hot humid summers, and frequent freeze-thaw cycles that drive furnace, insulation, and foundation-drainage work.
Des Moines permits for retaining wall
Building department: City of Des Moines Permit and Development Center. https://www.dsm.city/departments/development_services/permit_development_center/index.php
Typical permit cost: $100 to $500 for common residential trade permits, valuation-based. Inspection time: usually 2 to 4 business days for residential inspections. Des Moines rule: The Permit and Development Center consolidates all city permitting at City Hall, 1200 Locust St, where you can apply, pay, and request inspections online. Iowa is a strong severe-weather corridor, so hail and wind roofing claims and storm-shelter or egress upgrades are a recurring part of local trade demand.
Iowa sales tax and licensing for Concrete
Iowa sales tax: 6% + 0-1% local (~6.9% avg). New construction labor exempt. Repair, maintenance, remodeling labor TAXABLE under Iowa Code §423.2(7).
State license: Iowa Workforce Development (Contractor Registration), required: $50 (registration; not a license).
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