Demolition Permit Winnipeg - A Complete Guide For Property Owners

Whether you need to remove a portion of an existing structure or take down an entire building, demolition is an essential part of many Winnipeg construction projects. That being said, safe, responsible, and effective demolition takes a significant amount of planning and know-how, which is why it's a job best left to an experienced professional team like ours at Winnipeg Demolition.

One of the first steps in any demolition project is to obtain the proper paperwork for the job. In this post, we've taken a closer look at what a Winnipeg demolition permit is, when you need one, and what's involved in the permitting process:  

What Is A Demolition Permit?

A demolition permit is an official permit granted through the City of Winnipeg under Section 14 of the Winnipeg Building By-law. It authorizes the demolition, removal, or alteration of a building (or part of a building) and is required for both residential and commercial properties in Winnipeg.

When Do You Need A Demolition Permit In Winnipeg?

A demolition permit is required in Winnipeg any time you plan to remove, alter, or demolish a building or structure - including partial and full demolition projects with or without the intention to rebuild. In addition, a City of Winnipeg demolition contractor licence is required to apply for a demolition permit.

Exceptions:

• A demolition permit is not required for detached accessory structures smaller than 10 square metres (108 square feet).
• A demolition contractor licence is not required for the demolition of residential accessory structures like decks, detached garages, carports, storage sheds, gazebos, and workshops.

The Demolition Permit Process In Winnipeg

To get a demolition permit in Winnipeg, an application package must be submitted to the Zoning & Permits branch online, by email, or by mail. Included in the package must be:

• A completed application form that names a licensed demolition contractor (if required)
• A letter of authorization for commercial projects or an owner statement for residential projects (not required if the owner is the applicant)
• A Status of Title (dated within three months of the application date)
• A site plan or Building Location Certificate that clearly identifies the building(s) to be demolished and their distance from property lines

Depending on the specifics of the project, an Engineer's Report may also be required.

Safety And Neighbourhood Considerations

Before beginning a demolition project, the applicant is responsible for ensuring the safety of the surrounding neighbourhood by making sure that:

• The building/structure is free of asbestos (an asbestos inventory must be prepared and asbestos removal completed prior to demolition, if necessary)
• Utilities like water, electricity, and gas have been properly turned off and/or disconnected
• Safety fencing is put up to secure the area (if necessary)
• Proper measures have been taken to minimize the health and environmental impacts of dust and debris

After The Permit - Completing Your Project

Once a Winnipeg demolition permit has been issued, demolition must begin within 30 days and be finished within 60 days - including cleanup - unless an extension is granted. Any mandatory inspections must be arranged during this timeframe; the final inspection can be carried out after demolition is complete.

Why Work With A Professional Demolition Services Team?

No matter the scope of your demolition project, there are many reasons to work with a professional demolition services team. These include:

• Experience and expertise
• Proper equipment
• Licensing and safety compliance
• Knowledge of legal and permitting processes
• Professional asbestos handling
• Efficiency
• Environmental best practices
• Debris and waste removal services
• Peace of mind

Contact Our Winnipeg Demolition Permit Experts

Ready to learn more about demolition in Winnipeg and move forward with your next project? The experienced team at Winnipeg Demolition is here to do all the heavy lifting - and that includes taking care of the necessary permits. Contact us today to get started!