I want to remove an old garage that’s taking up backyard space, but I’m not planning a full remodel. Is it possible to demo just one structure safely without disturbing the rest of the house? And how much hassle is it with permits and cleanup?

Definitely check your local bylaws first—some cities are strict about demolition permits.

I did something similar when I wanted to reclaim space from an unused guest suite https://oakshs.ca/demolition/ was incredibly helpful with navigating permits and doing a clean, safe partial demolition. They were careful not to impact the main structure and took care of all the debris removal afterward. What impressed me most was how they prepped the site for future use without leaving a mess or hidden damage. It saved me a ton of time and stress, and the backyard looks so much more open now.