Permission for demolition in Warsaw - complete guide 2025

Permission for demolition in Warsaw - complete guide 2025

Introduction

Obtaining a demolition permit in Warsaw requires knowledge of current legal regulations and administrative procedures. According to the Construction Law Act of July 7, 1994 (consolidated text: Journal of Laws of 2024, item 725) and the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of April 12, 2002 regarding technical conditions for buildings and their location, the process of obtaining a demolition permit is strictly regulated.

When is a demolition permit required?

A demolition permit is required for:

1. Building structures with a built-up area exceeding 35 m²

• Residential buildings
• Industrial and warehouse buildings
• Public utility buildings

2. Objects listed in the heritage register

• Regardless of area
• Additional consent from heritage conservator required

3. Structures higher than 3 meters

• Industrial chimneys
• Telecommunications towers
• Silos and tanks

Required documents for application

Basic documents:

• Demolition permit application (form)
• Demolition project prepared by authorized designer
• Valid building permit for the object (copy)
• Documents confirming right to dispose of property

Additional documents:

• Map for design purposes (current, not older than 2 years)
• Demolition organization project
• Health and safety plan
• Dendrological inventory (if trees are present on site)

Step-by-step procedure

Step 1: Documentation preparation Commissioning demolition project from authorized designer. Cost: 2000-5000 PLN depending on object complexity.

Step 2: Application submission Application submitted to Architecture and Construction Department of relevant district office in Warsaw.

Step 3: Administrative fees

• Demolition permit fee: 297 PLN (as of 2025)
• Stamp duty: 17 PLN

Step 4: Processing time Maximum application processing time: 65 working days (can be shortened to 30 days with complete documentation).

Warsaw specifics

Special areas:

• City center - additional conservation requirements
• Conservation protection zone A - mandatory conservator opinion
• Landslide risk areas - additional geological documentation

Local regulations: Resolution No. LXII/1657/2018 of Warsaw City Council defines additional requirements for:

• Urban greenery protection
• Construction waste management
• Minimizing nuisance to residents

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

1. Incomplete documentation Solution: Using document checklist before application submission.

2. Incorrect demolition method specification Solution: Consultation with experienced demolition designer.

3. Failure to account for underground utilities Solution: Obtaining as-built maps and agreements with network managers.

Total process costs

Official fees: 314 PLN Demolition project: 2000-5000 PLN Design purpose map: 800-1500 PLN Additional expertise: 1000-3000 PLN Total cost: 4114-9814 PLN

Important dates in 2025

• From January 1, 2025, new regulations on construction waste management apply
• From March 1, 2025, digital application system introduced in Warsaw
• Until December 31, 2025, fee reduction for energy-efficient buildings applies

Inspections and consequences

Official inspections:

• Pre-commencement inspection
• Inspections during implementation
• Final inspection and acceptance protocol

Penalties for violations:

• Demolition without permit: 5000-500000 PLN
• Non-compliance with permit conditions: 1000-100000 PLN
• Lack of as-built documentation: 500-50000 PLN

Summary

Obtaining a demolition permit in Warsaw requires careful documentation preparation and knowledge of current regulations. Key is cooperation with experienced designer and construction company familiar with local conditions.

Bibliography

Legal acts:

• Construction Law Act of July 7, 1994 (consolidated text: Journal of Laws of 2024, item 725)
• Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of April 12, 2002 regarding technical conditions for buildings and their location (consolidated text: Journal of Laws of 2024, item 725)
• Resolution No. LXII/1657/2018 of Warsaw City Council of November 15, 2018

Official sources:

• Portal gov.pl - Building demolition permit, access: 2025
• Warsaw City Hall - Construction procedures, access: 2025
• Ministry of Development and Technology - Construction Law Guide 2025