How much does it cost to demolish a house in Toronto?

The cost depends on the size of the home, materials (brick, wood, concrete), site access, and whether hazardous materials like asbestos are present. On average, demolition cost in Toronto is priced per square foot, but we provide a custom quote after inspecting the property so you know exactly what’s included.

Do I need a demolition permit in Toronto for tearing down a house or building?

Yes, the City of Toronto requires permits for most demolitions — residential, commercial, or industrial. We handle the permit application and approvals for you so the project doesn’t get delayed.

How long does it take to demolish a house or commercial building in Toronto?

Small residential demolitions can take just a few days once permits are approved, while larger commercial or industrial projects may take weeks. We give you a timeline before work starts so you know exactly what to expect.

What extra costs should I expect with demolition in Toronto?

Common costs include labour, heavy equipment, debris removal, permits, and safety measures. Extra costs usually come up if we discover hidden issues like asbestos, poor soil, or underground tanks. We do a full site check before quoting to avoid surprises.

How is asbestos or hazardous material removed during demolition?

Hazardous materials like asbestos, lead paint, or mold must be safely removed before demolition. Our licensed abatement team seals the area, removes the material under strict safety rules, and clears the site for safe demolition work.

Do you handle emergency demolitions after a fire or storm?

Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency demolition for unsafe structures after fire, flooding, or collapse. Our team quickly secures the site, removes dangerous debris, and starts demolition to prevent further damage.

Will demolition damage my neighbour’s property or create dust and noise?

We take steps to protect neighbouring homes and businesses. That includes dust suppression, vibration monitoring, protective barriers, and scheduling work within Toronto’s noise by-laws. Our goal is safe, clean demolition with minimal disruption.

What’s the difference between interior demolition and full demolition?

Interior demolition means removing walls, floors, and finishes inside a building while keeping the main structure. Full demolition means taking down the entire building. We do both, depending on whether you’re renovating or rebuilding from scratch.

Do demolition contractors also do excavation, underpinning, and abatement?

Many don’t but MAGCOR does. We provide full service: underpinning, excavation, abatement, and demolition. That means one team, one schedule, and no delays from juggling multiple contractors.

Are demolition contractors in Toronto insured and licensed?

They should be and we are. We carry full insurance, WSIB coverage, and all required licences. Our team follows Ontario building codes and safety standards, so your project is protected start to finish.

Demolition Permits in Toronto: What You Need

Everything you need to know before swinging the first hammer

Demolition: It’s More Than Just a Wrecking Ball

Thinking of tearing something down in Toronto? Whether you’re levelling a home, gutting the interior, or prepping a site for a brand-new build, you’ll want to get your paperwork sorted before the walls start coming down. It might be tempting to skip ahead to the fun part—cue the sledgehammer—but trust us, understanding demolition permits in Toronto is one step you don’t want to overlook.

Permits can feel like a bureaucratic buzzkill, but they exist for good reasons: safety, legal compliance, and community protection. At MAGCOR, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when folks get it wrong. And let’s just say the cost of skipping the red tape can be a lot higher than just a slap on the wrist.

So, if you’re wondering how to get a demolition permit or confused about which types of demolition permits apply to your project, you’re in the right place.

Key Takeaways Before You Break Ground

✔ Different projects require different demolition permits—don’t assume one-size-fits-all

✔ Permits protect you legally and financially

✔ Heritage status or trees on your lot? Special rules may apply

✔ Delays often come from missing documents or zoning conflicts

✔ MAGCOR can help streamline your demolition permit service application

Types of Demolition Permits in Toronto

Now, not all demolitions are created equal. Depending on the scope of your project, Toronto issues several types of permits. Here’s what you need to know.

Full Demolition Permit

This one’s pretty self-explanatory. Planning to tear down an entire building? You’ll need a full demolition permit. Whether it’s a bungalow or a commercial warehouse, if you’re removing the structure down to the foundation, this is your go-to. It’s the most comprehensive permit, and the application process is equally thorough.

Partial Demolition Permit

Maybe you’re not bringing the whole house down—just opening up the kitchen or removing an attached garage. You’ll need a partial demolition permit, which applies when only part of the structure is being removed. Think of it as a surgical strike rather than a full-scale operation.

Heritage Property Demolition Permit

This one’s a whole different beast. If your property is on the City of Toronto’s Heritage Register, you’ll face more hurdles than usual. A heritage demolition permit is required, and the review process involves heritage conservation staff and possibly city council. So, if your building has historical value, brace for additional scrutiny.

Tree Removal Permit

Surprised to see this one on the list? You’re not alone. However, under Toronto demolition regulations, even cutting down a tree can require a permit. If your demolition affects a tree with a diameter greater than 30 cm, you may need a separate tree removal permit before work begins. Urban forestry isn’t playing around.

Why You Need a Demolition Permit

Let’s get real: skipping the permit isn’t worth it. Here’s why.

1. Legal Compliance

Toronto doesn’t mess around when it comes to legal requirements for demolition. Without the proper permits, you could face hefty fines, work stoppages, or even legal action. No one wants their project stalled halfway through because they didn’t tick the right boxes.

2. Safety First

Permits ensure that demolition work follows strict safety protocols, protecting everyone on-site and in the surrounding area. Think asbestos removal, safe equipment handling, and controlled debris disposal. It’s not just bureaucracy—it’s peace of mind.

3. Environmental Responsibility

Old buildings can hide nasty surprises like lead paint or asbestos. The demolition permit process often includes environmental assessments, which keep hazardous materials from becoming public health nightmares.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Permit

Getting a permit doesn’t have to feel like climbing Mount Bureaucracy. Follow these steps to make the process smoother.

Step 1: Do Your Homework

Start with some good old-fashioned research. Check zoning regulations, confirm if your property has a heritage designation, and review Toronto’s building code. A little prep goes a long way.

Step 2: Gather Documentation

You’ll need:

Detailed site plans
Proof of property ownership
Health and safety plans
Environmental reports (if applicable)

Step 3: Submit Your Application

You can apply online through the City of Toronto’s e-permitting portal. If that sounds daunting, MAGCOR can help you through the demolition permit process.

Step 4: Watch for Delays

Common holdups include:

Incomplete applications
Missing documentation
Zoning conflicts
Heritage concerns

Double-check everything before hitting submit to avoid bottlenecks.

Costs and Timelines

How Much Does It All Cost?

Permits come with fees based on the size and type of the project. You can find a full breakdown on our page about the cost of demolition permits.

Expect permit fees to range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, especially if you need multiple permits (like tree removal + demolition + heritage).

How Long Will It Take?

Typical processing times range from 10 to 30 business days. If heritage approval is needed, buckle up—it could take several months. The good news? With experienced help, you can often avoid unnecessary delays.

Real Talk: Case Studies and Lessons Learned

Let’s look at two real-life examples.

Case 1: The Smooth Operator

A contractor in East York planned to demolish an old triplex. They did their homework, got a full demolition permit, and filed all documents on time. The project stayed on schedule with no hiccups.

Case 2: The Permit Pirate

A homeowner in the Junction tried to demo a garage without permits. A neighbour complained. The city issued a stop-work order, and the homeowner had to pay fines and redo parts of the work—after finally applying for the right Toronto building permits. Ouch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I demolish without a permit?

Only very small structures (like some sheds) may be exempt. Always check first. Generally, no permit = big trouble.

What happens if I skip the permit process?

You risk fines, legal action, and delays. In worst-case scenarios, you may be forced to reverse the work.

How do I know if my property is heritage-listed?

Check with Toronto’s Heritage Property Register or consult a professional. When in doubt, ask—it’s better than a surprise review hearing.

Ready to Tear Down with Confidence?

Demolition might look like destruction, but really, it’s the first step in building something new. And like any good beginning, it needs a strong foundation—starting with the right permits.

Still have questions? Want expert help navigating the red tape? Reach out to MAGCOR, and let’s get your project rolling the right way. We’ll help you avoid pitfalls, keep things moving smoothly, and make sure your demolition is legal, safe, and stress-free.

After all, what’s the point of swinging a hammer if it’s just going to bounce back at you?

Let’s demolish confusion—one permit at a time.

MAGCOR is Toronto’s and the GTA’s premier demolition contractor, servicing Toronto, East York, Scarborough, Mississauga, Burlington, Hamilton, and Oakville. With over 40 full-time technicians, engineers, and structural experts, MAGCOR is a demolition industry leader dedicated to excellence and quality service to our clients.

Our business is built on three pillars: Accountability, passion and environmental responsibility.

Get a free consultation today by calling (416) 887-8833 or completing our convenient online form!

Demolition Permits in Toronto: Which Ones You Need and Why