1. Apply for a Demolition Permit- To apply for a permit you must complete a demolition permit application and submit an affidavit of compliance.
· Key aspects of the demolition permit include historical review, submittal requirements such as notarized authorization, a site plan or survey, tax certificates, and photos of the structure.
· The affidavit of compliance collects essential project details, owner/applicant and contractor information, and includes certifications regarding the accuracy of provided information, compliance with safety regulations, and acknowledgment of debris diversion requirements. The affidavit also contains sections for signatures from both the contractor and owner, duly notarized, affirming the accuracy and completeness of the submitted information.
2. Plan Review- Structures greater than 45 years require a review by the Historic Preservation Office. Additionally, if protected trees (trees 19” or greater in diameter) are impacted or will be pruned more that 25% must be reviewed for a tree permit.
3. Activate Permits- To activate permits, they must be paid for before inspections occur. Sewer tap and final plumbing inspections must be paid for by a licensed plumber.
4. Disconnect Utilities: Before demolition can commence, property owners or contractors must coordinate with relevant utility companies and a licensed plumber to disconnect services such as water, gas, electricity, and sewage.
5. Install Erosion Control and Tree Protection-
· Tree Protection- Trees 19" or greater in diameter are considered protected trees. For every 1" of trunk diameter, a 1' radius from the center of the tree needs to be protected by 8" of hardwood mulch and a 5’ high fence.
· Erosion Control- Erosion control measures are generally needed in areas or topographies where there is a risk of soil erosion due to factors such as slope, bare soil exposure, and increased runoff. There are several methods accepted by the city of Austin. For more information review Tree protection and Sediments Flow Chart PDF.
· Refrigerant Capture- Prior to demolition, property owners and contractors must ensure the safe and compliant removal of refrigerants from air conditioning and heating systems. This mandatory step aligns with environmental regulations to prevent the release of harmful substances into the atmosphere. A Refrigerant Disposal Acknowledgement must be uploaded to the building permit to proceed.
6. Schedule and Pass the Following Inspections-
· Pre-Construction Environmental Inspection:
- This inspection focuses on ensuring proper erosion control is in place.
· Pre-Construction Tree Inspection:
- For homes proposing work that will impact protected-size trees (19 inches or more in diameter), this inspection ensures compliance with tree protection regulations.
· 510 Sewer Tap & 521 Final Plumbing Inspections:
- These inspections are conducted in conjunction with the 100 Bldg. Pre-Construction Inspection and focus on sewer tap and final plumbing requirements.
· 100 Bldg. Pre-Construction Inspection:
- This comprehensive inspection verifies that all necessary measures are in place before demolition can proceed. It includes checks for
- Proper tree and environmental protections
- Utility disconnections
- Compliance with trade permits (Sewer Tap & Final Plumbing Inspections)
- Confirms upload of Refrigerant Disposal Acknowledgment (PDF) to the building permit
Once the 100 Bldg. Pre-Construction Inspection is passed, the Building Inspector provides the Demolition Notification Packet to the General Contractor. This packet includes instructions and materials for notifying adjacent properties.
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