“Red tape doesn’t slow down a job—bad planning does.”
If you’re starting a demolition project in Collier County—whether it’s tearing down a home, gutting a condo, or prepping for new construction—you’re going to need a permit. No exceptions. And while the paperwork may not be the most exciting part of the job, it can be the difference between a clean start and a costly stop-work order.
At Eco Demolitions, we’ve been managing the demolition permit process for over a decade across Naples, Bonita Springs, Marco Island, and the surrounding areas. We’ve seen the snags, the delays, the back-and-forth—and we’ve learned how to avoid them.
So if you’re wondering how to get a demolition permit in Naples, Florida, this post is for you. Here’s what it takes, what to avoid, and how to make it as painless as possible.
Step 1: Determine What Type of Demolition You’re Doing
Sounds obvious, but it matters more than you’d think.
Collier County distinguishes between:
- Interior Demolition (non-structural tear-outs like flooring, cabinets, drywall)
- Structural or Full Demolition (complete tear-down of a building or part of the structure)
- Selective Demolition (removing walls, ceilings, bathrooms, etc., within occupied or permitted structures)
Each type affects the scope of your permit. If you’re working inside a condo, you may need both county and HOA approvals, and sometimes fire department clearance depending on the work.
So before you fill out anything, define your scope. Nail it down in writing. You’ll save yourself hours later.
Step 2: Prepare the Right Documents
This is where most people trip up.
Here’s what you’ll generally need to submit for a demolition permit in Collier County:
- Completed Building Permit Application
- Proof of ownership or owner’s authorization
- Survey or site plan (showing the structure being removed)
- Asbestos report (required if the structure is commercial or built before 1980)
- Utility disconnect letters (electric, gas, water, sewer)
- Contractor license and insurance documentation
- Notarized demolition affidavits (available through Collier County’s website)
- Fee payment (based on job scope; varies)
If you’re working with Eco Demolitions, we gather, complete, and submit all of this for you. If not? Plan to spend a few days just assembling the paperwork.
Pro tip: Always double-check the most current document checklist on Collier County’s official Growth Management website. Requirements can shift based on local code changes.
Step 3: Submit Your Application Through GMD Public Portal
All building and demolition permits in Collier County are processed online via the Growth Management Department Public Portal.
Once you’ve created an account, you’ll:
- Upload all required documents
- Fill out your permit application digitally
- Pay your initial review fee (typically $250–$450 depending on scope)
- Wait for plan review, corrections (if any), and approval
Timeline: Expect 5–10 business days for residential demos. Commercial projects may take longer depending on scope and agency reviews.
You’ll receive email updates as your permit moves through review stages.
Step 4: Schedule Inspections (Yes, Even for Demolition)
Once approved, you’re not off the hook.
You’ll need to:
- Schedule required inspections, usually at time of utility disconnect and post-demolition
- Keep the jobsite accessible and post your permit onsite
- Follow any erosion control, site fencing, or tree preservation regulations noted in the permit conditions
Fail to do this? Expect fines, stop-work orders, and delays. We’ve seen it. It’s not fun.
At Eco Demolitions, we coordinate and attend all required inspections as part of the job—so you’re never left guessing.
Step 5: Final Close-Out and Debris Documentation
Once demolition is complete and the inspector signs off, you’ll need to:
- Upload photos of the cleared site (sometimes required)
- Ensure the debris is hauled to a licensed facility (Collier County may ask for receipts or load tickets)
- Close the permit through the portal
You’ll know it’s done when you receive a Final Approval Notice. Hold onto it—you’ll need it if you’re selling the property or filing for insurance.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
We’ve seen dozens of jobs derailed because someone skipped a step or didn’t know the rules. Here are the big ones:
1. Assuming interior demo doesn’t need a permit
Wrong. Even gutting a kitchen can require a permit depending on scope and location.
2. Forgetting utility disconnect letters
You can’t demo a structure with live electrical or gas lines. Utility disconnect documentation is required.
3. Not involving the HOA early
In gated communities or condos, HOA approval often comes before the county permit. Skip it and you’ll waste time.
4. Not using a licensed contractor
Collier County won’t issue permits to unlicensed entities. Even if you’re the property owner, full structure demo usually requires a licensed contractor.
5. Overlooking environmental regulations
If you’re close to wetlands or removing trees, you may need separate clearance from the Environmental Services department.
Why Work With a Demolition Contractor Who Handles Permitting?
Because you shouldn’t have to become an expert in building code to start a renovation.
At Eco Demolitions, we take the entire permit process off your plate:
- We submit the paperwork
- Handle revisions and resubmittals
- Coordinate with utility companies and inspectors
- Keep the timeline moving
- Ensure full compliance so you’re protected
We’ve done it for over 1,000 jobs—and we’re on a first-name basis with local permitting officials. That means fewer holdups and faster approvals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Demolition Permits in Collier County
Q. Do I Need a Permit to Remove Interior Walls in My Home?
A: Yes, if those walls are structural or part of a permitted building system. Even non-structural work may require a permit depending on the scope.
Q. How Long Does the Permit Process Usually Take?
A: For residential selective demo, expect 5–10 business days. For full teardowns or commercial demo, it can take 2–3 weeks depending on complexity and documentation.
Q. Can I Apply for the Permit Myself as the Property Owner?
A: Yes, but only under specific conditions. Most structural demolitions must be performed by a licensed contractor, and HOAs may still require you to go through a professional.
Q. What Happens if I Demo Without a Permit?
A: You risk fines, stop-work orders, and possibly being required to undo or re-permit completed work. It’s not worth the gamble.
Q. Is an Asbestos Inspection Always Required?
A: For commercial buildings or residential structures built before 1980, yes. In most other cases, it may be waived—but check with the county.
Q. Can Eco Demolitions Handle This Process for Me?
A: Yes. We manage the entire permitting and inspection process for our clients—from paperwork to final sign-off.
Ready to Start a Demolition Project in Collier County?
Let us handle the red tape while you focus on what comes next. Whether you’re clearing a lot, prepping for a renovation, or removing old construction, Eco Demolitions delivers clean, code-compliant demo that stays on schedule—and within regulation.
📞 Call 239-961-8953 or Request a Quote today.
We’ll take care of the permits, the clean-up, and everything in between.
