A certificate of occupancy is issued after final inspection confirms the building meets all applicable building codes, zoning requirements, and safety standards. A CO is typically required for new construction, major renovations, and changes in the use of a building. Without a valid CO, the property cannot be legally occupied or used.
After completing construction of a new office building, the developer requests a final inspection. The building inspector verifies everything meets code and issues a certificate of occupancy. Only then can tenants move in and begin using the space.
The CO comes AFTER construction is complete and final inspection is passed — not before. The exam tests the sequence: permit → construction → inspections → CO. Remember that a change in use (like converting a warehouse to apartments) also requires a new CO.
Related Terms
Related Concepts
Zoning is the government's division of land into districts with specific permitted uses such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural. It is the most common exercise of police power over private property.
A variance is an authorized deviation from the existing zoning ordinance granted to a property owner who demonstrates unique hardship. It allows a use or structure that would otherwise violate the current zoning rules.
A conditional use permit (also called a special use permit) allows a land use that is not automatically permitted by zoning but may be allowed under certain conditions. The use must be compatible with the surrounding area.
A nonconforming use is a property use that was legally established before a zoning change but no longer complies with the current zoning ordinance. It is commonly called a "grandfathered" use.
Building codes are government regulations that set minimum standards for construction, materials, design, and safety in buildings. They protect public health and safety by ensuring structures are built to acceptable standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
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