Certificate of Occupancy

The purpose of a Certificate of Occupancy (“COO” or “C of O”) is to ensure that the use of a building, structure or land in the District of Columbia conforms to the Zoning Regulations (DCMR Title 11) provisions of the DC Construction Codes, and the Green Building Act.

In most cases, no person can use a building, structure or land in the District of Columbia for any purpose other than a single-family dwelling, until a valid Certificate of Occupancy has been issued. 

1. Certificate of Occupancy Types
2. Ownership Change
3. Use Change
4. Occupant Load Change
5. Revision
6. Temporary Occupancy
7. New Building (there are three subsets)
   • Conditional
   • Completion of core and shell
   • Establishment of a new occupancy

Application Process - Change of Ownership

Application Process - All Other Types

Resources and Information:

• Certificate of Occupancy Supporting Documents
• Certificate of Occupancy Requirements and Application
• Issuance of Conditional Certificates of Occupancy Guidelines
• Certificate of Occupancy FAQs