San Jose Demolition Contractors

Demolition FAQS for San Jose, California

When is a demolition permit required?

A demolition permit is required in the city of San Jose for:

• Full building demolition
• Detached structures greater than 120 square feet
• Swimming pool removal
• Partial demolition

What kind of permit will I need for an interior gut out?

All interior demolition in the city of San Jose requires a Alteration/Partial Demolition permit. In order to obtain this kind of permit, you will need to provide a copy of your demolition plans along with an outline of how all existing safety features will be maintained in the building.

I would like to demolish my home. What information will I need to provide in order to obtain a demolition permit?

The city of San Jose requires the following information for all demolition permit applications:

• A plot plan showing the location of the structure or property you wish to demolish, along with any possible set backs (pools, fencing, garages, etc.)
• A building or structure "footprint" so that the demolished area can be designated as a "non-build" area in the future.

Note: If you intend to rebuild on the demolished area, you will have to provide a demolition, drainage, and compaction plan instead of a foot print of your property. This plan must be prepared and wet stamped by a State licensed engineer. You must also provide a special inspections form that designates the supervising engineer or Special Inspections agency that will conduct your backfill compaction observation. When this step has been completed, a report must be provided to the Building Division declaring that the land as "buildable"

Where can I find more information on permitting?

More information on demolition permits is available through the San Jose Building Division located at:

200 E. Santa Clara St.
Tower, 1st Floor
San Jose, CA 95113-1905

The Building Division can be reached by phone at (408) 535-3555.

What Are The Different Types of Demolition Services Offered By San Jose Demolition Companies?

Demolition companies have varying degrees of experience and may specialize in different types of services based on their equipment and level of expertise. Check the demolition services offered by the contractors above to find a match for your project.

• Residential Demolition - Home demolition or the wrecking and removal of a garage, shed, retaining wall, deck, or other residential building (typically less than 3 stories). This type of structural demo is typically achieved with hydraulic excavators and bull dozers.
• Industrial or Commercial Demolition - Wrecking services for larger jobs and larger buildings. May require a wrecking ball or controlled (explosive) demolition.
• Swimming Pool Removal - Above ground and in-ground swimming pool demolition and removal
• Asphalt and Concrete Demolition and Removal - Removal of concrete driveways, foundations, patios, sidewalks, etc...
• Environmental Remediation - asbestos abatement and removal along with other hazardous materials like lead paint.
• Selective or Interior Demolition - Interior renovation projects may require demolition crews tearing down and removing debris from walls, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, etc...
• Underground Storage Tank Removal - Cleanup and removal of hazardous materials contained in underground storage tanks.
• Excavating - Site clearing and preparation for building.