How to get a demolition permit

The following items must be submitted when applying for a demolition permit:

• You must obtain an Article 85 Demolition Delay approval from the Boston Landmarks Commission.  You can call 617-635-1935 or Boston.gov/landmarks.  This procedure is required to ensure you are not demolishing a historic building.

• Shut off notices from all underground and overhead utilities, such as: gas, electrical, telephone and cable companies.

• The Boston Water and Sewer Commission closed general service agreement GSA.  You can contact them at 617-989-7000.

• Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) approval for hazardous materials 617-292-5500

• Dig Safe reference number is required 1-888-dig-safe.

• A letter or bill from a pest control contractor stating the pest management will be performed before and after the demolition project begins.

• A licensed builder is required with supporting documents, such as: the Workers’ Compensation Form, Mattocks Higgins Affidavit, contract between parties, liability insurance, copy of your builder’s license front and back side.

• Obtain a permit from Boston Fire Prevention pertaining to the demolition you can contact them at 617-343-2188 or Boston.gov/fire prevention.

• Once the application and documents have been completed you will also need a review from our Environmental Services Division on the 4^th floor here at 1010 Massachusetts Avenue, or isdenvironmental@boston.gov

You can get a demolition permit by filing a short-form application.

Begin the application process online 

Choose removal of structure as the work type

Next upload all relevant documents listed on the checklist

If you are the property owner (one - two family only) and will be doing the work yourself, you need to fill out a homeowner waiver.

Once everything is uploaded email Anna.McGuinnes@Boston.gov for review and follow up if needed.  

Be sure to sign an agreement that you will follow state building codes and Boston’s zoning laws.