Demolition Permit Requirements by County in Florida

Quick Answer

To demolish a house in Florida, you must obtain a demolition permit from your local city or county building department. This is required under the Florida Building Code. In addition, you must file a Notice of Renovation or Demolition with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) at least 10 working days before demolition to comply with asbestos regulations.

Legal Authority & Regulatory Sources (Florida)

Demolition permitting in Florida is governed by a combination of state building code requirements, state and federal asbestos regulations, and local county permitting rules. The requirements summarized on this page are based on the following primary authorities:

Florida Building Code (Statewide Requirement)

Demolition permits are required under the Florida Building Code, which is adopted and enforced by all local jurisdictions in Florida.

• Florida Building Code – Existing Building, Section 105.1
  Requires permits for the demolition or removal of structures prior to work commencing.
• Enforcement is delegated to local building officials at the county or municipal level.

Florida DEP & Asbestos / NESHAP Compliance

All demolition projects involving structures—regardless of age—are subject to asbestos notification requirements enforced by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

• 10-working-day Notice of Demolition is required under:

  • Florida Administrative Code Rule 62-257

  • Federal EPA NESHAP (40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M)

• Applies to residential, commercial, and public buildings

• Asbestos inspections must be conducted by a Florida-licensed asbestos consultant

County-Level Permitting Authorities

While all Florida counties enforce the Florida Building Code, permit application processes and supplemental documentation vary by jurisdiction. County requirements referenced on this page were verified against the following official permitting authorities:

• Hillsborough County Development Services
  Demolition permits, asbestos survey documentation, and utility release requirements.
• Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board
  Residential demolition permitting and tree removal coordination.
• Orange County Building Safety
  Demolition permits, erosion control plans, and utility clearances.
• Miami-Dade County Regulatory and Economic Resources
  Environmental review, waste disposal plans, and asbestos clearance documentation.
• City of Jacksonville Planning and Development
  Duval County demolition permitting and inspections.

Jurisdictional Disclaimer

Demolition permit requirements in Florida are enforced at the local jurisdiction level. While this guide reflects current statewide standards and commonly required documentation, additional approvals may be required based on property location, zoning, environmental overlays, or utility conditions.

This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace official guidance from local building officials, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, or licensed professionals.

What Permits Are Needed for House Demolition in Florida?

Every Florida county requires a demolition permit before tearing down a house. Most also require an asbestos survey, proof of utility disconnections, and a waste disposal or recycling plan. In some counties, you may also need septic tank abandonment approval or tree removal permits.

Steps to Get a Demolition Permit in Florida

1. Submit a demolition permit application to your local building department.
2. Provide an asbestos inspection and abatement report, if required.
3. Obtain proof of utility disconnections (water, gas, electric, sewer).
4. Attach a site plan showing the structure to be demolished.
5. Submit a Notice of Demolition to the Florida DEP 10 days before work.
6. Receive permit approval and schedule required inspections.
7. Typical approval time: 5 to 15 business days

Typical cost: $100 to $400 for a residential demolition permit

Florida Demolition Permit Requirements by County

For larger projects such as shopping centers or industrial sites, see industrial demolition services or review past projects like Gulf View Mall demolition.

Residential vs. Commercial Demolition Permit Requirements

Learn more about residential demolition projects compared with commercial demolition in Tampa.

Common Questions

Do I need an asbestos inspection before house demolition in Florida?

Yes. An asbestos inspection is required before a demolition permit is approved in nearly every county.

How long does it take to get a demolition permit in Florida?

Most counties issue permits within 5 to 15 business days, provided all documents are complete.

Can I apply for a demolition permit online?

Yes. Many counties including Hillsborough, Orange, and Duval accept online applications.

Can a homeowner apply for their own demolition permit?

In some counties, yes. However, hiring a licensed demolition contractor ensures compliance.

How much does a demolition permit cost in Florida?

Permit fees typically range between $100 and $400 for residential demolitions.

People Also Ask

What is the first step to demolish a house in Florida?

The first step is to apply for a demolition permit from your county building department.

Is DEP notification always required in Florida?

Yes, Florida law requires a 10-day Notice of Demolition to DEP to comply with asbestos regulations.

What happens if I demolish a house without a permit?

Demolishing without a permit can lead to fines, stop-work orders, and legal liability.

Do all Florida counties have the same demolition rules?

No. Requirements vary by county, but all must follow Florida Building Code and asbestos regulations.

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