Asbestos is a mineral fiber. In the past, it was added to a variety of building materials to strengthen them and provide heat insulation and fire resistance. However, due to the health risks associated with inhaling asbestos fibers, many asbestos products have been banned. When a building is going to be demolished, it is important to ensure that it does not contain asbestos that would be released into the area.
Follow these steps to ensure your demolition project is completed safely and immediately.
Demolition Permit Process
- Hire an asbestos building inspector certified by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to check your house. The inspector will inspect and collect samples for analysis of asbestos content. The cost for this inspection will vary depending upon the size and complexity of the house. Please refer to the following resources to select a certified inspector:
- Certified asbestos inspectors (NW Denver Metro)
- Search for “asbestos consulting and testing” online or in your local phonebook
- Ensure that the building inspector completes the inspection portion of the demolition application and returns it to you. The inspector will report one of three states:
- The house has friable asbestos. This means the inspector found asbestos-containing material that must be removed prior to demolition. Removal requires the use of state-certified asbestos workers and a state asbestos removal permit. Your inspector can help you select abatement contractors, or you can contact the Asbestos Compliance Assistance Group at 303-692-3100.
- The house has non-friable asbestos. This means the inspector found non-friable asbestos-containing material that can be left in place during demolition because it will not become friable during routine demolition procedures.
- The house has no asbestos.
- Complete the remainder of the demolition application and mail or deliver it to the CDPHE Asbestos Compliance Assistance Group, along with a fee of $50 + $5 per 1,000 square feet of area to be demolished. CDPHE has ten working days to process the permit.
Mailing Address
Permit Coordinator
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
APCD-1E-B1
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80248
Physical Address
CDPHE, southwest entrance
(Look for “Asbestos Unit and Air Permits)
700 South Ash Street
Denver, CO 80246
Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., M-F
