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 review the Landmarks Commission website. 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. Call 617-292-5500 for help.

• A Dig Safe reference number is required. Contact 1-888-DIG-SAFE for more details.

• 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, and a 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 for help.

• Once the application and documents have been completed, you will also need a review from our Environmental Services Division on the 4^th floor at 1010 Massachusetts Avenue. You can contact the division at 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

Short-form Permit information

If you are the property owner (one or 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.