Demolition of a structure is approved when the government bestows official permission for a planned destruction of the structure. It does not simply include blanket permission to demolish the structure at will, but must be accompanied by an actual plan for demolition. This would normally happen during the existence phase, but can also happen to a structure which is under construction or on hold.

Permission must relate to an intended demolition. A general legal ability to demolish without an actual plan is insufficient for this milestone.

Approval precedes or accompanies the planned work rather than proving that destruction has begun. A structure still under construction or on hold can receive demolition approval.