APPJ Adopts Demolition Regulations for Abandoned or Blighted Structures

The Avoyelles Parish Police Jury has adopted new regulations governing the demolition of abandoned or blighted buildings located within the parish under Jury jurisdiction. The regulations were approved at the Jury’s July 2025 regular meeting and are now in effect.

The new policy requires that anyone planning to demolish a structure within the parish but outside municipal limits must first obtain a demolition permit. Parish officials say the purpose of the new rules is twofold: to prevent damage to water and gas lines connected to structures and to ensure that any demolition work begun is properly completed.

Permit Fees:

• Residential: $50
• Commercial: $100

Permits are required for most buildings connected to utilities such as water, gas, or electricity. Structures such as barns or sheds that are not connected to utilities will generally not require a permit.

If a demolition project begins without a permit, the responsible party will have one business day after being reported to obtain the required permit. Failure to do so, or failure to complete the demolition satisfactorily, will result in a $2,500 fine.

Demolition permits are valid for 30 days and may be extended once for an additional 15 days if approved by the Avoyelles Parish Planning Commission.

These new regulations are intended to improve oversight of demolition projects and help maintain public safety and accountability throughout the parish.

Residents and contractors planning demolition work are urged to comply with the new requirements to avoid penalties and ensure all projects are properly completed.

For more information or to apply for a demolition permit, contact the Avoyelles Parish Police Jury Office at 318-253-9208 or the Avoyelles Parish Planning Commission at 318-964-2048.