What You Need to Know About Demolition Permits

Do you need to carry out a demolition project and are wondering whether you need a demolition permit? Before you carry out any demolition, you will need a permit, which is a legal document that provides you with the right to do demolition of a particular structure. Below are things you need to know when getting a demolition permit.

What Are the Requirements for Obtaining a Demolition Permit?

For you to obtain a demolition permit, you will need the following:

  • A permit application (complete).
  • A submitted and approved grading plan.
  • Cash demolition escrow bond (this depends on your municipality). You will be refunded the bond after the completion of the project. 
  • An inspected plumbing permit.

What Are the Steps for Demolition Permits?

To file for a demolition permit, you need to do the following:

  • Review the specific requirements of your municipality.
  • Prepare all the required documents.
  • Complete your application.
  • Pay the application fee.
  • Submit the application.
  • Wait for the review.

What Needs to Happen Before Getting a Demolition Permit?

Apart from meeting the requirements of obtaining a demolition permit, you also need to:

  • Determine whether your project is a demolition project or a major alteration. These two are very different and have different requirements.
  • Check for control measures that need to be implemented during the project.
  • Check whether there are deconstruction ordinance requirements. This is particularly important when you have a historic structure, as it requires a certified deconstruction expert so that they can prevent damage to valuable materials that can be reused. 
  • Check whether there are any utility requirements.
  • Ensure you get permission from the property owners if it’s not yours.
  • Determine whether you’ll need to compact the soil after demolition. You may also need an independent agency to do a soil inspection. 

When Does a Person Need a Demolition Permit?

A person needs to get a demolition permit in the following circumstances:

  • When conducting renovation on a building that requires significant demolition.
  • When razing a primary structure from a lot.
  • When accessory structures, such as mechanical systems, utility systems, basement type foundations or hazardous materials, are being removed or raised from a lot.

If you want to demolish several structures, you might have to get permits for each of them. 

What Are the Requirements for A Demolition Grading Plan?

As mentioned above, you need to have a demolition grading plan for some projects. This plan should include:

  • The address of the property and its legal description.
  • Boundaries and existing topography of the surrounding area.
  • Erosion and sediment control measures plan.
  • The proposed elevations and contours.
  • Limits in regards to grading and clearing.

Your municipality may require you to include more information on your grading plan. Check with them about what they require. 

When Is a Demolition Permit Not Needed?

You may not need to obtain a demolition plan when:

  • Removing small garages, sheds and other minor structures.
  • When removing decks, porches and other similar structures.
  • When demolishing an interior structure for renovation purposes.

To carry out demolition on your property, you will need to obtain a permit. The above information will guide you on how to go about it.