If you'd like to demolish a building on your property, you need a building permit. 

You can review our Building Permit Guide for information on applicable laws and fees, and to access our Building Permit Application checklist. 

Building Permit Guide

Apply for a permit

Complete and submit a building permit application prior to starting any demolition work on your property.

Fees

The following fees apply for a demolition permit:

  • $128 for a Class A demolition (simple cottage, garage, etc.)
  • $344 for a Class B demolition (requiring engineering)

Permit checklist

Please make sure to include the following information with your permit application:

All completed permit applications should be submitted by email to the Permit Coordinator. 

Tax rebates

You may be eligible for a reduction of taxes if you demolish a building on your property that changes the property value. Learn more about the eligibility and how to apply for a cancellation or reduction of property taxes. 

If a building on your property was demolished or destroyed by fire please review the Demolition Permit information sheet that will help you navigate the steps to submit your Tax Reduction Application.

Demolition Permit information sheet

Steps to qualify for a potential property tax reduction as a result of a demolished structure or a structure destroyed by fire

Before contacting us you must:

  • complete the demolition
  • clear the property of debris
  • make the area safe

After these steps you can request a final inspection to close the permit file. You are not required to be on-site for the inspection.

Once the final inspection has been completed, you may apply for a tax adjustment by filling out our Tax Reduction Application. A copy of the final inspection report will need to be attached to the application form. You can also attach before and after photos, which can aid in the review
Process after submitting your request for a tax adjustment
  1. Your application will be submitted to the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) for their review. If it is determined the removal of the structure changes the assessment value of the property MPAC will submit a response to the Township of Severn detailing the revised assessment.
  2. The recommended adjustment will be submitted to Township of Severn Council for approval.
  3. The property owner will receive notice before the Council meeting to advise them of the recommended changes and the date of the meeting. Upon approval, the adjustment will be applied to the property tax account.

Please note: Only a partial amount of the property taxes can be reduced or cancelled. Land and property, even without a structure, has an assessment value.