Demolition projects in Florida are subject to strict regulations to ensure safety and minimize the environmental impact. Thus, if you’re planning to demolish something, whether it is an entire mall or just your garage, and are wondering if you’ll need a permit to do it, the short answer is yes. An experienced demolition company knows that and won’t skip the permitting process when estimating and planning your demolition.
Since demolition is an inherently dangerous job, state and local building departments make every effort to ensure every demolition project in their jurisdiction meets the minimum requirements to protect workers’ and people’s health and the environment.
Hence, failing to obtain the necessary permits before any residential or commercial demolition projects can result in fines, project delays, and even legal action if the environment or someone is affected by the unauthorized demolition. Suppose you want to navigate the complexities of your demolition project without losing your mind with paperwork and costs. In that case, working with an experienced demolition company such as TRM is your best option.
Structural demolition in Vero Beach: 3 key things to consider when applying for a permit
Before embarking on a demolition project, it is necessary to understand not only the regulations and permits required by your local and state governments but also the basics of demolition work so you can ensure you’re applying for the correct permit and don’t waste time and money doing paperwork just to be rejected. That’s why it is recommended that you hire commercial or residential demolition services to help you through all the processes.
1. Determine the scope of the project.
Not all demolition projects have the same extent. While some want to tear down their kitchen wall to connect it with their living room, others must demolish their entire warehouse due to structural concerns. Hence, the first step any experienced demolition company should take is to help determine which demolition project you will start.
Normally, demolition work is divided into two categories: selective and total demolition, and these categories often affect the number of permits needed before commencing.
Total demolition: As its name suggests, total or structural demolition means tearing down a whole structure, leaving the site cleared for new construction. Total demolition projects are common when buildings are no longer safe to occupy due to structural concerns or when it’s not viable to repair them.
By law, Florida requires a permit before total demolitions due to the increased risk they pose to the environment and workers on the job site. Hence, ensure your experienced demolition company obtains it before proceeding further.
Selective demolition: These projects involve removing specific parts of the building, such as interior walls, floors, or supporting structures, while preserving the rest. Selective demolition is common in major renovation projects that require tearing down just a few elements.
For example, commercial demolition projects within renovation jobs often require selective demolition to remove damaged walls, beams, floors, and plumbing and electrical systems without demolishing the primary structure.
2. Type of permit
As mentioned above, depending on the type and nature of your project, you may need several types of permits. Thus, it’s worth discussing your needs with an experienced demolition company.
Permits from your local building department: These are required for all projects, whether selective or structural demolition, and must be issued by your building authorities.
Through these permits, your building department can ensure your demolition complies with building codes and zoning laws and does not pose a risk to your surroundings and neighbors.
Environmental permits: If your building was built before 1980 or contains suspected asbestos and other hazardous materials, you must obtain additional permits.
These will ensure the asbestos is removed and safely disposed of before the residential or commercial demolition projects start.
3. Applying for a permit
After assessing the project’s scope and determining the permits you require, an experienced demolition company will next apply for the permits.
Now, the application process has several steps and may ask you for the following documents when submitting the request:
- Property address.
- Technical information about the structure you plan to demolish.
- The project details include the type of demolition planned, methods, and timeline.
- Plan for debris removal and disposal.
- Proof of ownership or authorization to demolish.
- Asbestos inspection and abatement.
- Documentation of utility disconnection.
Likewise, you will also need to pay the application fee and wait until your building department reviews it. The timeline can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks. Hence, if you want to ensure everything is done right and you can start on the planned date, working with an experienced demolition company is a must.
Structural demolition done right with TRM Construction.
With over three decades of experience in the construction industry, we’ve assembled a professional team of engineers, architects, designers, and builders to help you achieve your building project, regardless of the scope. If you’re looking for residential demolition services, we can help. If you’re looking to build a medical tenant, we’ll also help.
