Importance of Commercial Demolition Permits: What You Should Know

At the very basic level, any type of permit represents safe practice. It’s why builders often have to get them before they construct something. And they’re also required for demolition projects of any kind as well.

A demolition permit may seem like nothing more than a legal document that allows for the demolition or destruction of a property, but it represents a lot more. Just as a building permit is required to construct a building, a demolition permit is needed to take it down. You might not think that demolishing a building is a complicated process, but there are a variety of factors that go into a safe, effective demolition, and a lot of this is reflected in the permit application. We’ll get into more of this throughout this post.

When Do You Need a Demolition Permit?

As we said in the above section, demolishing a property is far more complicated than it may look on the surface. The process is about a lot more than just taking a wrecking ball, explosives, or bringing heavy-duty equipment on site to raze a building. There’s a variety of planning and safety precautions that must be considered before a building can be taken down.

There are residential and commercial demolition permits. Environmental notifications are also required for most projects to the State Environment Department. Some counties and townships also may require notifications and permits. It is important to know where the demolition project is located (in city limits or unincorporated). Asbestos, lead, and universal assessment reports may also be required by an environmental consultant prior to starting the demolition process. Utility disconnects are also an important part of the demolition process.

How to Get a Demolition Permit

So, how do you get a commercial demolition permit? It’s a process that includes meeting a number of requirements.

Here’s a closer look at some of the requirements a contractor must meet before a permit can be issued, and demolition work can commence:

• Provide proof of insurance: Insurance documentation is critical for a number of tasks — both construction and non-construction-related. Insurance to obtain a demolition permit typically must include coverage for physical and property harm, worker’s compensation, and more. This is all the more important in higher-risk jobs, like demolition.

• Inform community members and nearby residents: Generally speaking, any buildings or tenants located within 50 feet of the building scheduled to be demolished must be notified and informed of the forthcoming demolition project. Typically, this consists of a written letter that provides information on the demolition so locals can plan accordingly.

• Provide an asbestos report (if necessary): Any building that’s set to be demolished must have an asbestos report. Asbestos is a mineral that was once widely used to create a variety of materials, from floor tiles to ceiling tiles. When left undisturbed, asbestos-containing materials are harmless. However, if such materials are disturbed and the fibers enter the environment, they can embed into the lungs and lead to long-term health consequences. An asbestos report will either confirm the presence of asbestos-containing materials or conclude that there are none in the facility that need to be addressed.

• Provide evidence of contractor authorization: This is nothing more than a signed letter from the owner noting that the contractor has authorization to carry out the demolition work.



• Provide proof of a demolition strategy: The final key requirement needed to obtain a demolition permit is proof of plan. This should be a detailed strategy outlining how the building will be demolished.

Finally, you’ll need to complete the demolition application with all of these supporting materials. It’s worth noting that the process may vary based on the state or city that you’re applying through. However, keep in mind that demolition permits are required by law in order to perform the work.

Other Considerations for Commercial Demolition

Demolition is not a simple process, and there are many factors and considerations that must be accounted for before, during, and even after the job.

Here’s a look at some of the other variables that should be considered before the demolition process:

• Timeline: How long is the building going to take to bring down? This factor is largely based on the size and scope of the project, and by what means the project will be demolished. Size, scope, and method don’t just play a role in the timeline of the project, but in the overall cost of it as well.

Contact Alpine Demolition Today

For more information on the importance of commercial demolition permits, why they’re necessary, and the steps contractors need to take to acquire one, contact Alpine Demolition today. At Alpine Demolition, we aim to make demolition work as convenient as possible for our partners — and this includes handling all the permitting. Contact us today to learn more about the importance of permitting and to get a head start on your next demolition project.