Apply for a Permit to Wreck

A Permit to Wreck is needed before work to remove any type of structure larger than 20x10 feet. This includes houses, garages, large sheds, commercial buildings, parking ramps, and any other permanent structure over that size.

For a Permit to Wreck to be issued, the applicant must provide the following:

  • Proof that utilities have been disconnected, including documentation from Consumers Energy
  • An asbestos and lead survey
  • A copy of their State of Michigan Builder's License
  • Proof of liability insurance naming the City of Kalamazoo, its agents, and its employees as additionally insured. The policy must provide minimum coverage of $1,000,000 for bodily injury and $1,000,000 for property damage. 

By Mail

Step 1.Before You Apply 

Before a permit to wreck will be issued, you need to provide documentation that the structure and site are ready. You will also need to demonstrate that you are licensed and insured to complete the work.

You will need to provide a copy of your insurance certificate to IBEX Agency at kazoocerts@ibexagency.com before applying. You must also include the following documents with your application:

  • Proof that water, gas, and other utilities have been properly disconnected
  • A completed lead and asbestos survey
  • A copy of your State of Michigan Builder's License
  • A completed application for a License to Wreck

Step 2.Complete the Applications

Complete the necessary applications and return them by mail to:

Community Planning & Economic Development
245 N Rose Street
Suite 100
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

You can also return them in person or scan the applications and email them to development@kalamazoocity.org. Make sure you include all supporting documents and sign the applications. 

Application for a License to Wreck or Move Buildings(PDF, 381KB)
Application for a Permit to Wreck(PDF, 177KB)

Step 3.Review and Approval  

Your application will be reviewed by our building & trades staff who may contact you if additional information is necessary. If your permit is approved, you will be notified by mail and receive an invoice with the total permit fees. Payment instructions will be included with the invoice. Review and approval of permits can take up to two weeks.  

In Person

Step 1.Before You Apply 

Before a permit to wreck will be issued, you need to provide documentation that the structure and site are ready. You will also need to demonstrate that you are licensed and insured to complete the work.

You will need to provide a copy of your insurance certificate to IBEX Agency at kazoocerts@ibexagency.com before applying. You must also include the following documents with your application:

  • Proof that water, gas, and other utilities have been properly disconnected
  • A completed lead and asbestos survey
  • A copy of your State of Michigan Builder's License
  • A completed application for a License to Wreck

Step 2.Complete the Applications

Visit the Community Planning & Economic Development department office and pick up a copy of the applications:

Community Planning & Economic Development
245 N Rose Street
Suite 100
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Complete the applications and return them to our office during regular business hours. You can also mail them to the address above or scan the applications and email them to development@kalamazoocity.org. Make sure you include any needed supporting documents and sign the applications.  

Application for a License to Wreck or Move Buildings(PDF, 381KB)
Application for a Permit to Wreck(PDF, 177KB) 

Step 3.Review and Approval  

Your application will be reviewed by our building & trades staff who may contact you if additional information is necessary. If your permit is approved, you will be notified by mail and receive an invoice with the total permit fees. Payment instructions will be included with the invoice. Review and approval of permits can take up to two weeks.

By Phone

Unfortunately, we are unable to process permit applications by phone, but we are happy to answer questions about the process or help connect you with the our building & trades team. If you have questions, call 311 or (269) 337-8000.

Contact Us

Phone

311

Alternate Phone

(269) 337-8000

Email

development@kalamazoocity.org

Location

245 N Rose Street, Suite 100
Kalamazoo
49007
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