Demolition Permits in Massachusetts: Town-by-Town Guide for Middlesex County

Planning a demolition project in Middlesex County? Most structural demolition in Massachusetts requires a permit from your local building department. The rules vary by town and by the type of structure being demolished. Getting the permit process wrong can mean fines, work stoppages, or having to undo completed work. Here is a practical guide to demolition permits across the 13 towns McDumpsters serves — when you need one, what it costs, and how to apply.

When Do You Need a Demolition Permit?

Permit typically required for:

• Detached garages and carports
• Large sheds (over 120-200 sq ft depending on town)
• Decks attached to the house
• Chimney removal
• Interior demolition involving load-bearing walls
• Any structure with electrical, plumbing, or gas connections

Permit typically NOT required for:

• Small sheds under 120 sq ft (varies by town)
• Freestanding decks under a certain size
• Interior demolition of non-load-bearing walls
• Removing concrete flatwork (driveways, patios, walkways)
• Removing fences

When in doubt, call your town building department. A 5-minute phone call can save you from a code violation.

How Much Does a Demolition Permit Cost?

Demolition permit fees in Middlesex County typically range from $50 to $200 depending on the town and the scope of work. Some towns base the fee on project value or structure size.

How to Apply for a Demolition Permit

The general process across most Middlesex County towns:

• Visit or call the building department — ask about requirements for your specific project
• Complete the application — most towns have a simple one-page form
• Provide documentation — may include a plot plan, photos, and contractor information
• Pay the fee — $50-200 depending on the town
• Wait for approval — typically 1-5 business days
• Schedule inspections — some towns require a pre-demolition and post-demolition inspection

Town-by-Town Notes

Billerica

Contact the Building Department at Town Hall. Permits required for structures over 120 sq ft. Typical processing time: 3-5 business days. Asbestos survey required for pre-1978 structures.

Chelmsford

Building Department handles all demolition permits. Required for attached structures and garages. Interior demo of non-load-bearing walls typically does not require a permit.

Lowell

Permits managed through the Inspectional Services Department. As a city (not a town), Lowell may have additional requirements for commercial properties. Plan for slightly longer processing times.

Tewksbury

Building Department at Town Hall. Standard permit process. Sheds under 120 sq ft typically exempt.

Wilmington

Building Department handles permits. Standard Middlesex County requirements apply.

Burlington

Permits required for most structural demolition. The building department is responsive and typically processes permits within 3 business days.

Bedford

Standard permit requirements. Historic district properties may have additional review requirements through the Historical Commission.

Carlisle

Small town with straightforward permit process. Contact the Building Inspector directly.

Dracut

Building Department handles permits. Standard requirements for the area.

Westford

Standard permit process through the Building Department.

Andover

Permits managed through the Inspection Department. Andover has some historic district requirements that may affect demolition of visible structures.

Woburn

City building department. Standard commercial and residential demolition permit requirements.

Lexington

Building Department processes permits. Lexington has active Historic Districts Commission — demolition of structures in historic districts requires additional review and approval.

Pre-1978 Homes: Asbestos and Lead Requirements

Massachusetts law requires an asbestos inspection before demolition of buildings constructed before 1978. This applies to:

• Interior demolition: Floor tiles, insulation, joint compound, popcorn ceilings may contain asbestos
• Exterior demolition: Siding, roofing, and pipe insulation may contain asbestos
• Lead paint: Common in pre-1978 homes; proper containment required during demolition

If asbestos is found, licensed abatement must be completed before demolition can begin. This is a separate cost from the demolition itself.

Utility Disconnection

Before demolishing any structure with utilities, you must have them disconnected:

• Electrical: Licensed electrician must disconnect and cap wiring
• Gas: Contact your gas company (National Grid, etc.) to disconnect service
• Water/sewer: Plumber must cap any water lines

McDumpsters can advise you on the permit process for any of our 13 service towns. Call (978) 375-2272 and we will help you figure out what is needed before your project begins.