Preparatory demolition work for the planned White House ballroom does not require additional approval from federal design or preservation bodies, according to the chair of a key advisory panel appointed by President Donald Trump.

The clarification removes a potential procedural hurdle and allows early-stage work to move forward as the administration advances plans for a permanent large-scale event space at the executive residence.

The panel chief said the current demolition involves non-original elements and internal modifications that fall within established authority already granted to the executive branch.

As a result, the work does not trigger a new round of formal review, which would otherwise be required for major exterior or structural changes to historic buildings.

Supporters of the project within the White House say the ballroom is intended to modernize the venue’s capacity for state dinners and major diplomatic gatherings, reducing reliance on temporary structures while respecting the historic character of the complex.

They emphasize that later construction phases will still be coordinated with relevant oversight bodies where required.

The statement comes amid heightened public interest in the project, following the release of images showing early demolition activity.

Administration officials stress that the process is being handled methodically, in line with preservation standards and executive authority, as the project progresses toward its next stages.