Historical Commission > What is the purpose of having a Demolition Delay Bylaw?
A Demolition Delay Bylaw can be a very effective tool in helping to protect historically significant resources in the community. While a demolition bylaw, alone, cannot prevent demolitions indefinitely, the opportunity of delaying the demolition of a significant resource can often have a positive outcome. Generally, in a town with a demolition bylaw, a property owner requesting a demolition permit from the Building Department must first receive approval from the Historical Commission. If the Historical Commission determines that the building is preferably preserved, a delay period is imposed. The delay period provides a window of opportunity to consider other alternatives to the demolition of the building. There are many success stories in Massachusetts where a better solution is found. Nevertheless, after the delay period has expired, the Building Inspector can sign the demolition permit and demolition can proceed. A demolition bylaw cannot indefinitely prevent a demolition from occur
