Demolition in Colorado: Asbestos Inspection & CDPHE Permit Required

8/30/2025

Workspace graphic showing an asbestos inspection checklist and a required CDPHE permit document alongside a demolition plan for Colorado compliance.

Demolition in Colorado: Asbestos Inspection & CDPHE Permit Required What triggers the requirement, how the process works, and how to avoid project-stopping delays Demolition • Inspection • CDPHE Permitting

When you select Demolition in the Asbestos Inspection Wizard, the result is:
“Inspection & Asbestos Report and State Demolition Permit Required.”
Here’s why:
1. Demolition is Always RegulatedUnder Colorado Regulation No. 8, Part B (Asbestos), the State requires an asbestos inspection for all demolition projects, regardless of the building’s age, size, or type.

Definition of Demolition (Reg 8, Part B, Section I.B.23):
“The wrecking or taking out of any load-supporting structural member of a facility, and related handling operations…”
This covers any activity where part or all of a structure is removed, not just complete tear-downs.
Because demolition disturbs a wide range of materials, the State presumes there could be asbestos present unless proven otherwise by a certified inspection.

2. Inspection Must Be Performed by a Certified Inspector

Requirement (Reg 8, Part B, Section III.A.1):
“Prior to any renovation or demolition, a thorough inspection for asbestos-containing material shall be performed by a Colorado-certified asbestos building inspector.”
This ensures an independent, qualified professional documents whether asbestos is present before work begins.

3. State Demolition Permit is Mandatory

In addition to the inspection, a Demolition Notification Permit must be filed with the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE).
This applies even if no asbestos is found, because the State needs to track all demolitions for compliance and recordkeeping.

4. Protecting Health and Avoiding Liability

Asbestos fibers released during demolition can cause serious diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
An inspection and permit process protects:
- Workers (so contractors know how to handle materials safely).
- Neighbors and the public (so dust and debris are properly managed).
- Property owners (avoiding fines and costly project delays if asbestos is discovered mid-demolition).

✅ In Plain English
If you’re demolishing any structure in Colorado, an asbestos inspection and a State demolition permit are always required by law.

The inspection proves whether asbestos is present.
The permit ensures CDPHE has been notified and the project follows safe practices.

For most homeowners and contractors, this means your first step is to hire a certified asbestos inspector, get a written report, and then file for a demolition permit with CDPHE.

References for Those Who Want to Read More

Colorado Regulation No. 8, Part B – Asbestos CDPHE link →
- Section I.B.23 – Definition of Demolition
- Section III.A.1 – Inspection Requirements
- Section III.B – Notification (Demolition Permits)

Demolition in Colorado: Asbestos Inspection & CDPHE Permit Required

Demolition in Colorado: Asbestos Inspection & CDPHE Permit Required What triggers the requirement, how the process works, and how to avoid project-stopping delays Demolition • Inspection • CDPHE Permitting

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