Building Demolition & Binding Agreements

When is a Binding Agreement For Building Demolition Required?

A binding agreement may be required when:

• A structure is being demolished without immediate replacement

• A septic system will be abandoned

• There are potential environmental or public health concerns

• The property may be redeveloped in the future

The agreement ensures that all required steps are completed to properly close out the property and protect future land use.

Please contact Jackson County Environmental Health before beginning any demolition activities.

Iowa DNR Time of Transfer Inspection Waiver for Building Demolition (Please contact Jackson County Environmental Health to complete this form)

Phone: 563-652-1729
Email: etownsend@jacksoncounty.iowa.gov

Asbestos Requirements (Must Be Completed First)

Before any demolition begins, the structure must be evaluated for asbestos-containing materials.

State and federal regulations require:

• Inspection by a certified asbestos inspector

• Proper notification to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), if applicable

• Removal and disposal of asbestos by licensed professionals prior to demolition

Documentation confirming asbestos inspection and/or abatement may be required by Jackson County before demolition approval.

For additional guidance, contact the Iowa DNR Air Quality Bureau regarding asbestos demolition requirements.

Asbestos, Training Fires & Controlled Burns | Department of Natural Resources

Asbestos Notification of Demolition and Renovation

Septic System Abandonment (Required)

If the building is served by a septic system, the system must be properly abandoned.

Requirements:

• Septic tank must be pumped by a licensed commercial septic tank pumper

• Tank must be crushed, removed, or properly destroyed

• Tank must be filled with clean sand or granular material

• Any wells or other wastewater components must be properly abandoned per code

Documentation of pumping and destruction must be submitted to Jackson County Environmental Health.

Failure to properly abandon a septic system may create safety hazards and future property liabilities.

Open Burning of Demolition Debris (Last Step Only)

Open burning of demolition materials is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and local ordinances.

Important:

• Burning may only occur after asbestos inspection/abatement and structure demolition requirements are completed

• Only clean, untreated wood may be burned (if allowed)

• Burning of prohibited materials (shingles, plastics, treated wood, insulation, etc.) is illegal

• DNR notification or permits may be required

• Local fire department notification may also be required

Open burning should always be the final step after all environmental and public health requirements have been met.

For open burning rules, visit the Iowa DNR Air Quality website or contact our office for guidance.

Open Burning | Department of Natural Resources

Fact Sheet - DNR's Rules for Training Fires

Never Burn Tires and Other Iowa Open Burning Rules

Before You Begin Demolition – Checklist

Please ensure the following are completed:

✔ Contact Jackson County Environmental Health
✔ Complete and sign binding agreement (if required)
✔ Asbestos inspection and abatement completed
✔ Septic system pumped and destroyed
✔ Obtain any required DNR notifications or permits
✔ Follow open burning regulations (if applicable)

Building Demolition Checklist

Contact Us

Jackson County Environmental Health
201 W Platt Street
Maquoketa, Iowa 52060
Phone: 563-652-1729
Email: etownsend@jacksoncounty.iowa.gov 

We are happy to assist property owners, contractors, and municipalities through the demolition process to ensure compliance and protect public health.