Demolition & Hazardous Materials
Demolition & Hazardous Materials
When is a Demolition Permit Needed?
A demolition permit is required whenever a structure regulated by the State of Oregon Residential Specialty Code or the Oregon Structural Specialty Code is proposed to be demolished. The removal of a portion of a building is considered an alteration to that structure and is usually reviewed and permitted as part of a larger project, and not typically as a stand-alone demolition permit.
Removal of Hazardous Materials
Asbestos, because of its fiber strength and heat resistance, has been used in a variety of building construction materials such as insulation, fire protection, roofing, flooring, and ceiling tiles, and cement products. Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of developing lung disease. Lead, while it has some beneficial uses, can be toxic to humans and animals causing health defects. Lead and lead compounds have been used in a wide variety of products including paint, ceramics, pipes, and plumbing materials.
Asbestos
In accordance with Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) regulations, certain categories of buildings must be inspected for the presence of Asbestos Containing Material prior to any demolition and/or renovation activities. This applies to public and private commercial, and residential buildings constructed prior to January 1, 2004.
An asbestos survey is required prior to issuance of a demolition permit. If the asbestos survey identifies asbestos as being present, an asbestos abatement report will also be required. All residential buildings must have an asbestos survey conducted by an accredited inspector prior to any demolition or renovation activities, however a survey is not required for owner-occupants doing own renovation work inside the dwelling.
Information regarding the handling and disposal of materials that contain asbestos can be obtained by contacting the State Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) at (800) 349-7677 or by visiting their website here.
Lead Paint
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires that renovation, repair and/or painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 dwellings, childcare facilities, or schools must be performed by an EPA-certified renovator working for an EPA-certified firm, and that specific work practices must be implemented to prevent lead contamination. More information is available at 1-800-424-LEAD [5323] or on the EPA's website here.
The federal law is intended to protect individuals from possible lead exposure. The federal law does not require proof buildings contain lead-based paint (LBP). Instead, it assumes possible exposure from renovating certain buildings. The Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB) regulates lead-based paint removal for contractors in accordance with Oregon Legislature passed HB 2134 (2009), which creates a “certified LBP renovation contractor” license. More information is available here.
Issues to consider for Commercial Demo & Tenant Improvements
Commercial structure demolition impacts fire protection systems including fire sprinklers, fire alarms, smoke detectors, fire suppression systems, fire-rated assemblies, etc. A demolition permit will not be issued until plans are provided demonstrating the integrity of the referenced systems. Fire safety during demolition shall comply with OSSC Chapter 33 and OFC Chapter 33.
If demolition work impacts paths of egress travel, exits, exit signs, or means of egress illumination, a demolition permit will not be issued until plans illustrating an approved alternate or temporary means of egress are provided.
Partial demolition that includes portions of foundations or structural load bearing elements and support systems will require plans designed by an Oregon licensed design professional.
