Demolition of a building
If you are planning to carry out demolition work to a building greater than 50 cubic metres in volume (some exemptions apply) you will need to notify us before you start work. You can download a copy of our Section 80 Notification Form.
The Building Act states that no one can start demolition work unless the local authority has been notified and the local authority has served a counter notice. Demolition works may legally commence after the person intending to demolish has served a Notice under Section 80 of the Act and we have served a counter Notice under Section 81 of the Act or six weeks have elapsed since notifying us of your intention.
We are entitled to charge for the reasonable expenses of reviewing a Section 80 notice and preparing a notice under Section 81 of the Building Act 1984, and supervision of work on any site. Fees are payable by the person who has issued the intended demolition notice under Section 80 with a minimum charge payable with submission of this notice. Payment methods accepted included cheque or Credit/Debit card.
In order for us to process a Demolition Notice, the application should be accompanied by the following:
- A site location plan
- Confirmation that support to and/or weather protection of exposed parts of adjacent buildings if applicable
- Confirmation that an asbestos site survey has or will be carried out and any asbestos will be removed by a competent, licenced contractor
- Confirmation that the site is suitably fenced or hoarded
- The required demolition fee
- A 24-hour emergency phone number
To find out more about how we process your data please refer to our Privacy Notice.
If you have any queries or wish to submit your Section 80 Notice, please contact us via email building.control@york.gov.uk.
Health and safety when demolishing a building
Visit the Health and Safety Executive website for advice about Construction Design and Management Regulations which apply to most demolition work.
Asbestos and demolition
If you find asbestos containing materials during demolition work you must notify the Health and Safety Executive immediately, and follow their requirements for safe removal and disposal.
Unless a skip operator or other contractor is already licensed to transport asbestos based products, a licence will be required from the Environment Agency to move any asbestos based material off site.