Demolition of  disaster-damaged structures may be eligible for emergency work assistance if  the work is necessary to:
   †  Eliminate an  immediate threat to lives, public health and safety
   †  Eliminate  immediate threats of significant damage to improved public or private  property when the measures are cost effective
   †  Ensure the  economic recovery of the affected community to the benefit of the  community-at-large
   †  Mitigate the  risk to life and property by removing substantially damaged structures and  associated appurtenances as needed to convert property acquired using FEMA  hazard mitigation program funds to uses compatible with open space,  recreation, or wetlands management practices
   Eligible activities include demolition of the  facility superstructure, filling in of open below-grade structures  (basements, swimming pools), and other activities including capping of wells  and pumping and capping of septic tanks.
   As with debris removal from private property,  demolition of private structures requires approval by FEMA prior to start of  work and agreement by the local government to save and hold the Federal  government free from damages due to performance of the work. Demolition work  also requires condemnation by an authorized local official in accordance with  State and local law.
   Examples of ineligible demolition activities  include:
   †  Removal of slabs  or foundations that do not present a health or safety hazard (except for  structures in a FEMA funded buyout program)
   †  Removal or  covering of pads and driveways (except for structures in a FEMA funded buyout  program)
   †  Demolition of  structures condemned as safety hazards prior to the disaster and the  resulting debris
   †  Demolition of  threatened but habitable (not yet damaged) structures
   Demolition activities are eligible for permanent  work assistance when the work is required in support of eligible repair,  replacement, or reconstruction of a project.
   References:   Sections 403, 406, and 407 of the Stafford Act 44 CFR §206.225 and  §206.226
   Demolition of Private Structures, FEMA Policy  9523.4, dated July 18, 2007
   Public Assistance Guide, FEMA 322, page 39, 69,  73, 91, 119, 131, 133