Certificate of occupancy
Also called CO, C of O
The document a jurisdiction issues when a building is complete and legally safe to occupy. Usually required before anyone can move in or a sale can close.
When it applies
In the permitting lifecycle, certificate of occupancy applies during Closeout.
- Setup: does not usually apply
- Preparation: does not usually apply
- Submission: does not usually apply
- Plan review: does not usually apply
- Permit issued: does not usually apply
- Inspections: does not usually apply
- Closeout: applies at this phase
A certificate of occupancy, almost always shortened to CO, is the document a building department issues when a building or space is finished, has passed its final inspections, and may legally be occupied.
It is issued for new buildings, for additions that create new occupiable space, and for changes of occupancy classification, such as a warehouse converted to a restaurant.
What it takes to get one
- All permits on the project closed, including trade sub-permits
- All final inspections passed
- Any other agency signoffs the jurisdiction requires, which can include fire, health, zoning, and utilities
- Outstanding fees paid
A missed trade sub-permit is the most common reason a CO stalls. Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits pulled by subcontractors are each closed separately, and a single open sub-permit will hold the certificate.
Temporary certificates
Many jurisdictions issue a temporary certificate of occupancy, a TCO, when a space is safe to occupy but minor items remain. A TCO has an expiration date and conditions attached, and it converts to a full CO once the outstanding items are cleared.
Why it matters beyond move-in
Lenders, insurers, and title companies routinely ask for the CO. An unpermitted addition with no certificate is a familiar way for a real estate closing to fall apart late.
Common questions
- What is the difference between a certificate of occupancy and a certificate of completion?
- A certificate of occupancy is issued for work that creates or changes an occupiable space, such as a new house or a change of use, and it establishes that the space may legally be occupied. A certificate of completion is issued when permitted work is finished but does not create occupiable space, such as a reroof, a pool, or a service upgrade.
Related terms
Rules vary by jurisdiction
This definition is general. How certificate of occupancy is handled in practice is set by the building department that permits your property. Find yours in our free directory.
Last reviewed September 4, 2026