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Permits—Certificates of Occupancy
A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is a document that certifies that the use of a building complies with Zoning regulations and Building Codes.
A new Certificate of Occupancy is required for new building construction or changes in:
- Ownership
- Occupancy Load
- Use
Please note that single family homes, individual units in an apartment building and individual suites in an office building do not require Certificates of Occupancy.
You must get a Certificate of Occupancy before occupation and use of the building. The certificate must be posted onsite.
New Construction, Change of Use, or Change of Occupancy Load
If a change of use/load is proposed, you must submit a building permit application* showing the proposed new construction or the existing building. A building permit will be issued. When you’re prepared for a C of O, call (202) 442-4400 to request an inspection. You will also need to complete and submit the C of O application* and pre-occupancy data sheet*. The initial application fee is $33. After the C of O application has been reviewed and the C of O is ready for pickup, we will call you. An additional fee of $42 (or more, depending upon the size of the project) will be required.
Change in Ownership
If you are changing ownership of the property, with no change in use and no new construction, you will need to complete the C of O application and submit it in the Permit Center at 941 North Capitol Street, NE. The initial application fee is $33. A physical inspection will be scheduled for rental units in the R-1 to R-5A zoning districts and for food service establishments, in most instances. After the application has been reviewed and the C of O is ready for pick up, you will be called. An additional fee of $42 or more (depending upon the size of the project) will be required.
For more information on Certificates of Occupancy and application forms, select these links:
All Certificates of Occupancy must be prominently posted and visible to those entering the building, unless the building is a house of worship.
If you are proposing a use that does not meet zoning requirements for your property, you may file an application for a special exception or variance with the Board of Zoning Adjustment. Information about zoning and acceptable uses for District of Columbia property is available at www.dcoz.dc.gov.
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