Garage Demolition in Portland: What You Need to Know
By OJB Solutions – Licensed Demolition Contractors Serving Portland Metro
Old garages can be more trouble than they’re worth. Whether you're dealing with a rotting roof, cracked foundation, or just need more usable space, garage demolition is a smart solution for many Portland homeowners and investors.
At OJB Solutions, we handle garage teardowns from start to finish—including permitting, utility coordination, debris hauling, and site prep. Here's everything you need to know before you swing a hammer or call for a quote.
Why Homeowners Choose to Demolish a Garage
Garages aren’t always worth saving. If yours is old, unstable, or simply in the way, demo may be the cleanest path forward.
Common reasons to demolish include:
Structural damage from water, pests, or time
Collapsing roof, walls, or foundation
Poor construction or unpermitted additions
Making room for an ADU, new garage, or backyard build
Converting lot space for parking or landscaping
Selling a property with safety issues
Whether you're planning a rebuild or just want it gone, we’ll walk you through the best plan for your site and budget.
Do You Need a Permit to Demo a Garage in Portland?
Yes. In most cases, garage demolition in Portland requires a permit from the city or county. You may also need to:
Submit a Pre-Demolition Notification
Get a lead-based paint and asbestos survey
Schedule a Pre-Construction Erosion Control (200 inspection)
Cap or disconnect utilities (electricity, gas, water)
Fence the site and manage debris per city code
If you’re located in Multnomah County, there's a specific process for detached garage removal—including inspections and erosion control guidelines. Our team handles this for you to keep the project legal and moving forward.
How Long Does Garage Demolition Take?
Most standard one- or two-car garages in Portland can be fully demolished in 1 to 2 days, including:
Disconnection of utilities
Tear-down of framing, roof, and slab
Sorting and hauling debris
Site leveling and basic cleanup
Permitting and inspections may add time to your overall schedule. We recommend starting the paperwork early—especially if you're planning to rebuild or sell the property.
What About Hazardous Materials?
Older garages—especially those built before 1980—may contain:
Asbestos in roofing, siding, or joint compound
Lead-based paint on doors, walls, or trim
Oil stains or chemical storage in the slab or soil
We work with certified inspectors and abatement teams to ensure proper testing, reporting, and handling. This protects your health and keeps your project in compliance with Oregon DEQ and local building authorities.
What Happens After Demo?
Once your garage is removed, we can:
Leave the site clean and graded
Pour a new slab or prep for a future structure
Help design a rebuild or layout for an ADU, shop, or carport
Install fencing or re-landscape the area
If you’re working with a builder or architect, we’ll coordinate with them to keep your project moving seamlessly.
Who We Work With
OJB Solutions provides garage demolition services for:
Homeowners
Realtors and property investors
General contractors
House flippers
Estate managers
Developers and permit expeditors
We’re licensed, insured, and experienced with residential demolition codes across Portland, Gresham, Oregon City, and surrounding cities.
Service Area
We proudly offer garage demolition in:
Portland
Milwaukie
Lake Oswego
Oregon City
West Linn
Gresham
Tigard
Clackamas
Tualatin
Beaverton
Wilsonville and beyond
If your property falls under Multnomah, Clackamas, or Washington County jurisdiction, we’re familiar with the local processes.
Ready to Take Down That Old Garage?
Whether it's leaning, leaking, or just in the way—OJB Solutions is your local expert for fast, legal, and professional garage demolition.
Call or text: (503) 882-0704
Email: contact@oregonjunkbusters.com
Website: ojbsolutions.com
Let’s clear the space and make room for what’s next.
