Pennsylvania Demolition Permit
Requirements
Permit Structure and Fees
Demolition permits in Pennsylvania are issued by your local city or county building department. Typical residential permit fees range from $100–$350. Contact your local building department for the current application process, required documents, and fees.
Key Pennsylvania Requirements
Pennsylvania has no statewide building code for 1-2 family dwellings; local codes govern. Philadelphia has own L&I department. PA DEP handles NESHAP.
Asbestos Notification in Pennsylvania
The 10-working-day advance asbestos NESHAP notification for demolitions that disturb regulated asbestos-containing material (RACM) above threshold amounts must be submitted to: PA DEP, Bureau of Air Quality, Asbestos Program: 717-783-9476
Standard RACM thresholds: 260 linear feet on pipes, 160 square feet on other components, or 35 cubic feet removed. For any structure built before 1980, schedule a licensed asbestos inspection before applying for your permit. See our full asbestos inspection guide for what this involves and what it costs.
Pre-Demolition Checklist for Pennsylvania Projects
- Confirm permit requirement with local building department
- Schedule asbestos inspection for pre-1980 structures
- Submit NESHAP notification if RACM exceeds thresholds (to: PA DEP, Bureau of Air Quality, Asbestos Program: 717-783-9476)
- Arrange utility disconnections: gas, electric, water, sewer
- Submit demolition permit application with all required documents
- Post permit on-site; complete demolition; schedule final inspection
Download our free Pre-Demolition Checklist PDF covering all steps in sequence.
Pennsylvania Demolition FAQs
Who handles asbestos notification in Pennsylvania?+
Asbestos NESHAP notification for Pennsylvania demolition projects goes to: PA DEP, Bureau of Air Quality, Asbestos Program: 717-783-9476. The 10-working-day notice is required before demolition when RACM exceeds 260 linear feet on pipes, 160 square feet on other components, or 35 cubic feet of removed material. See our asbestos guide for full details on the notification process.
What does a demolition permit cost in Pennsylvania?+
Demolition permit fees in Pennsylvania typically range from $100–$350 for residential structures. This covers the permit fee only — asbestos inspection ($250–$800), utility disconnection ($200–$1,000), and debris disposal are additional costs. See our complete cost guide for a full breakdown.
Do I need a permit to demolish a shed in Pennsylvania?+
It depends on your local jurisdiction. Many Pennsylvania cities and counties exempt sheds under 120–200 square feet from demolition permit requirements. Larger sheds, and any shed with utility connections, typically require a permit. Contact your local building department to confirm the specific threshold for your area. See our permit trigger guide for the full framework.