Raze / Demolish Permit

A Demolition (Raze) Permit is required to remove or tear down any structure in the City of Richland Center. This ensures safety, proper disposal, and compliance with state and local rules.

You need a demolition permit if you are:

• Tearing down a house, garage, or shed
• Removing part of a structure (major structural demolition)
• Demolishing a commercial or industrial building
• Clearing a property with existing structures
• Minor interior remodeling does not require a demolition permit

What You Need to Apply

• Address and parcel number
• Type of structure(s) to be razed
• Method of demolition (mechanical, hand, etc.)
• Contractor information
• Utility disconnection letters (gas, electric, water/sewer)
• Site restoration or future use plan

Permit Fee

The demolition permit fee is set per the Building Inspector's current contract rate (Resolution 2013-30) and is due at the time the application is submitted.

Requirements During and After Demolition

Per City Code Ch. 390, property owners must also:

• Complete demolition within 60 days of starting
• Keep the site fully fenced or barricaded at all times
• Bring the lot to grade (level with the abutting sidewalk, curb, or street) once demolition is complete
• If reconstruction doesn't begin within 60 days of starting demolition, seed the lot with lawn grass

Steps to Apply

1. Contact utilities to disconnect services.
2. Submit a permit application and fee with the Building Inspector a https://jiportal.com/
3. Staff reviews the request and contacts applicant to obtain utility disconnect letters
4. The Building Inspector reviews the application for compliance with applicable code requirements
5. Once approved, a permit will be issued and you may proceed with demolition, subject to the site conditions in Ch. 390 above

Planning to Build on the Site Afterward?

The demolition permit only covers removal of the existing structure. If you plan to construct a new building on the site, a separate building and zoning permit is required. That review involves both:

• Building Inspector — reviews the construction plans for compliance with the Building Code (Ch. 420) and issues the building permit.
• Zoning Administrator — confirms the future construction complies with the applicable zoning district (setbacks, permitted use, lot requirements, etc.).

Helpful Links

• State of Wisconsin Demolition Requirements
• Dumpster Permit