Before demolishing any part of a building, the law requires you to have a wrecking permit from Building Inspection.
The staff reviews all demolition permit applications in Lexington. If a property is determined to be architecturally or historically significant, a 30-day hold is placed on the issuance of the permit application to allow for its documentation.
In order to get a wrecking permit for demolition you need to:
1. Have a certificate of insurance
You need to have proof of insurance for the demolition. The coverage should include:
- Bodily injury
- Per each accident
- Property damage
- Workmen’s compensation
- Certificate should state: LFUCG as holder and covers wrecking
2. Get a grading permit
The type of grading permit needed varies based on projects. To get a grading permit you need to contact Engineering:
101 E. Vine St.
4th Floor
Lexington, Ky. 40507
(859) 258-3410
3. Notify owners of surrounding properties
Our office will furnish you with a list of addresses within 50 feet of the property line. A letter of notification must be sent to the property owners regarding the proposed demolition.
These notifications must be made before starting any work.
4. Present an asbestos report
An asbestos report must be obtained from a private agency. If report is positive, a proof of abatement will be required.
5. Proof of contractor permission
A letter from the owner and/or agent which gives the contractor permission to perform the work. The letter must have a signature from the owner or authorized agent.
6. Sewer Plug Number
Have the sewer plug number issued by the Water Quality. To find out the number, contact them at:
125 Lisle Industrial Avenue, Ste. 180
Lexington, Ky. 40511
(859) 425-2400
7. Have a plan for demolition
A plan for demolition needs to be submitted with the application. This needs to be a step-by-step plan of how you intend to take the structure to the ground.
8. Complete application for demolition
Create an account and apply online
Turn in all of the documentation and application into Building Inspection:
101 E. Vine St.
2nd Floor
Lexington, Ky. 40507