Demolition Notices and Section 80

Most South African demolitions require notification to the local council under demolition notification under National Building Regulations. Demolishing without notice exposes you to enforcement and prosecution.

When required

• Demolition of buildings except internal demolition
• Demolition of walls over 1.8m
• Demolition of buildings exceeding 50m³

Exempt: demolition of greenhouses, conservatories, sheds under 50m³.

Notice content

• Name and address of demolisher
• Location and description of building
• Method of demolition
• Date proposed
• Disposal of materials

Council response

Council has 6 weeks to issue counter-notice imposing conditions:

• Shoring of adjacent buildings
• Weatherproofing of exposed walls
• Removal of debris
• Sealing of sewers and drains
• Disconnection of services

If no counter-notice in 6 weeks, demolisher can proceed but should still satisfy good practice.

Other notifications

• Utilities (electric, gas, water disconnection)
• Department of Employment and Labour (DCOIDA) (Section 30 notification if project notifiable under Construction Regulations)
• Department of Forestry, Fisheries & Environment (DFFE) for sites with contamination
• Local Authority Building Control if relevant

Planning permission

Demolition of dwellings or buildings in heritage protection overlay zones usually requires planning permission. Most other demolitions don't, but check.

Penalties

Demolition without notice is a criminal offence. Fines up to R100,000 per breach, plus reinstatement orders for adjacent damage.

MCFAR supports demolition projects with structural engineering input.

Frequently Asked Questions