Demolition Review for Landmarks and Historic District Properties

The proposed demolition of most structures in historic districts and individual landmark sites requires review by the Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) or if the property is in the Lower Downtown Historic District, the Lower Downtown Design Review Commission (LDDRC).

  • Demolition of contributing structures in historic districts or individual landmarks that entail 40 percent or more of the square footage of the structure’s exterior wall surfaces, 40 percent or more of the roof structure area measured in plan view, or 40 percent or more of the combined square footage of the structure’s exterior walls and roof structure area require a public hearing at the Landmark Preservation Commission or Lower Downtown Design Review Commission.
  • Demolition of non-contributing structures in historic districts require review by the LPC or LDDRC, but do not require a public hearing. 
  • Demolition of accessory structures, such as garages, are typically reviewed by Landmark Preservation staff.  

If you are unsure about the landmark status of your property, see the historic landmarks & districts map and enter the property address.

Note: Some partial demolitions, done in preparation for additions or remodeling, are included in the scope of construction permits and do not require a demolition permit. 

How to Submit on E-permits

Step 1.Pre-Application Meeting

A pre-application meeting is required for all demolition requests involving individual landmarks or primary structures located within historic districts. A pre-application meeting is not required for the demolition of an accessory structure. Email the completed pre-application request form(PDF, 139KB), plans/drawings/sketches that adequately depict the project, and color photos of existing conditions to landmark@denvergov.org. 

Request a pre-application meeting

Step 2.Complete Application

After your pre-application meeting, complete the Total Demolition Application(PDF, 151KB).

Step 3.Gather Photos

Take color photographs showing all sides of the structure to be demolished. Photographs must be at least 300 dpi, at least 4” x 6,” and submitted as a jpg or pdf. View the Landmark Standards for Photographs(PDF, 590KB).

Step 4.Real Property Record

To verify property ownership and legal description, provide a copy of the real property record from the Assessor's Office. 

Step 5.Submit on E-permits

Submit your application materials via E-permits:

  • Create an account or log in to an existing account
  • Click the "Development Services" tab
  • Click "Apply for a Permit"
  • Select "Landmark Demolition" and follow the instructions.

For assistance with e-permits, visit the FAQ page.

 

Next Steps: Review and Determination

Review and Public Hearing

Demolition proposals require review and/or a public hearing by the Landmark Preservation Commission or, if the property is in the Lower Downtown Historic District, the Lower Downtown Design Review Commission. Given that the purpose of landmark designation is to preserve historic properties, demolition applications are given close examination and consideration.

Visit the Landmark Preservation Commission page or the Lower Downtown Design Review Commission page for information on meeting dates, submission deadlines, presentation materials and what to expect at the meetings.

Replacement Plan or Structure

If demolition of a primary structure is approved by the LPC or LDDRC, a replacement structure must also be approved by the LPC or LDDRC before the building may be demolished. 

Visit the Landmark Preservation Commission page or the Lower Downtown Design Review Commission page for information on meeting dates, submission deadlines, presentation materials and what to expect at the meetings.

An application for the demolition of an accessory structure on an individual landmark site or in a historic district must be accompanied by a replacement plan, such as a new accessory structure. For more information about the design review process for new accessory structures, visit the Design Review for Garages and Small Accessory Structures webpage.

Contact Us

Phone

720-865-2709

Email

landmark@denvergov.org

Additional Information

Fees are assessed at the time the demolition permit is pulled and are based on the valuation of the project.

 

All materials submitted with your application become the property the City and County of Denver. The materials are part of public record, can be used in a public hearing, and cannot be returned.

 

If you use assistive technology and need help accessing the content on this page, please contact landmark@denvergov.org. 

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