Malibu demolition is shaped by three things: the coast, the hillsides and fire. Whether you’re replacing a beach house, gutting a canyon home or clearing a lot after a fire, permits and site logistics take real planning. BRG Demolition is a licensed demolition contractor (CSLB #1096336) based in Camarillo, reachable via the 101 and the canyon roads or along PCH. We work for Malibu homeowners, property owners, architects, general contractors and developers with one owner-led crew. The person who bids your job runs it.

Demolition services in Malibu

House demolition for rebuilds, including beachfront and hillside homes.
Interior demolition and soft strip for major remodels.
Concrete, hardscape and driveway removal, including foundations, pool decks and flatwork.
Site clearing and lot prep for rebuilds, plus construction cleanup for builders.

What to know before demolition in Malibu

The whole city is in the Coastal Zone. Malibu has a certified Local Coastal Program, and most development, including many demolitions, needs a Coastal Development Permit from the City or an exemption. For disaster rebuilds, the LCP generally exempts like-for-like replacements within about 10% of the original size in substantially the same location. Your architect or the City’s Planning Department can confirm what applies.
City permits. Building and demolition permits are issued by the City of Malibu’s Building Safety Division, through its online portal.
Septic systems. Most of Malibu relies on onsite wastewater treatment systems (septic). Removing or abandoning a septic tank, seepage pit or cesspool during demolition requires a separate OWTS Abandonment Permit from the City’s Environmental Health staff, with an inspection before anything is covered. Tell us what’s on the property so it’s in the plan.
Fire rebuilds. Malibu is still rebuilding from the 2018 Woolsey Fire and from the Franklin Fire (December 2024) and the Palisades Fire (January 2025). The City offers fee waivers for eligible owner-occupied rebuilds after the Palisades, Franklin and Broad fires, with program deadlines. Check the City’s rebuild site (maliburebuilds.org) for current dates. If a lot was cleared under a government debris-removal program, there may still be foundations, flatwork, walls or pools to remove before rebuilding.
Asbestos: South Coast AQMD. Malibu is in LA County, so South Coast AQMD Rule 1403 applies: a certified asbestos survey before demolition, asbestos removed first, and a notification for every demolition. A copy goes to the City with the demolition permit application.
Access and 811. Narrow PCH frontage, steep driveways and limited parking affect equipment and haul-off, and PCH work can require traffic control. We call DigAlert (811) before any excavation.

Why Malibu owners and builders choose BRG

We plan logistics, septic and coastal requirements up front, protect what stays, and give you a written bid that spells out the scope. Licensed California contractor, CSLB #1096336. Fully insured, COI available on request.

Nearby areas we serve: Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Westlake Village. → All service areas

Malibu demolition FAQ

Do I need a coastal development permit to demolish my Malibu home?

Often, yes, since the whole city is in the Coastal Zone. Like-for-like disaster rebuilds may be exempt. The City’s Planning Department makes the call.

What happens to my septic system during demolition?

If tanks, pits or other components are being removed or abandoned, the City requires an OWTS Abandonment Permit and inspection.

My lot was cleared after the fire. Is there still demolition to do?

Often there is: foundations, slabs, retaining walls, pools and driveways may remain. We can remove what’s left and prepare the pad for your builder.

Which air district handles asbestos in Malibu?

The South Coast AQMD, under Rule 1403. A survey and a notification are required before every demolition.

Planning demolition in Malibu?

Call (805) 800-8159 or request a free bid. Send the address, photos and any City approvals you already have.