Demolition permits are required for all buildings greater than 10 m², except farm buildings.

How to apply for a demolition permit

Follow these steps to complete your application:

• Review the Demolition Permit Requirements
• Complete the following application forms:
  • Application for a Permit to Construct or Demolish
  • Demolition Utility Sign-off Form
  • Application for Reduction of Taxes (if applicable)
  • Commitment of General Review Form (only for buildings within the scope of Division C, 1.2.2.3 of the Official Building Code)
  • A letter of authorization from the owner if the applicant is an agent for the owner
• Include a copy of the site plan and/or survey indicating the building, structure or structure portion to be demolished

• Submit your completed application and required documents one of the following ways:

  • In person or by mail to the Municipal Office at 600 Tomlinson Drive PO Box 820 Port Elgin ON N0H2C4

  • By email to Building Services. Please note, you will be charged a printing fee ($18.08 per page larger than 11x17”, $.36 per page smaller than 11x17”) when submitting by email as we require physical copies of required documents.

Professional engineer requirements

If you are applying for a demolition permit, you will need to retain a professional engineer (P.Eng) to perform a general review of the project during demolition, where:

• The building exceeds three storeys in height or 600 m² in building area,
• The building structure includes pre-tensioned or post-tensioned members,
• The demolition will extend below the level of footings of any adjacent building and occur within the angle of repose of the soil, drawn from the bottom of these footings, or
• Explosives or a laser will be used during demolition (Division C, 1.2.2.3 of the Official Building Code)

Disposing demolition waste to the landfill

If you are planning on disposing your demolition waste at the Saugeen Shores Landfill you will need to complete a Designated Substances Survey. We may impose conditions based on the results of the survey. For more information, email our Manager, Environmental Services.

Asbestos disposal

Read our Acceptance, Handling and Disposal of Asbestos in Landfill Summary for more information on disposal procedures for asbestos. Email our Manager, Environmental Services if you have any questions.

Demolition permit fee

A demolition permit fee of $143.97 is required upon pickup of the approved permit. View methods of payment acceptable for permits.