Land records · Parcel maps · October 5, 2026
What Is a Certificate of Occupancy? When You Need One
What is a certificate of occupancy? The local document saying a building meets code and can be lived in or used. When it's issued and how to find one.
What is a certificate of occupancy? A certificate of occupancy, often called a CO, is a document issued by a local building department confirming that a building or space has passed required inspections and complies with building codes and zoning for its intended use. It is typically issued for new construction, major renovations, additions, and changes in use, such as converting a garage to living space or a house to an office. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
When a CO is required
- New homes and buildings.
- Additions and major remodels, depending on local rules.
- Changes in use, such as residential to commercial.
- Some sales, where local laws require a CO or resale inspection before transfer.
- Rental registration in some cities.
Requirements vary widely; some places issue COs only for new construction.
How a CO is issued
- Permits are pulled before construction.
- Inspections are completed at stages: foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, insulation, and final.
- Zoning, fire, and health approvals are obtained where needed.
- The building department issues the CO after the final inspection passes.
A temporary certificate of occupancy may be issued when a building is safe to occupy but minor items remain, such as landscaping.
What a CO shows
| Item | Example |
|---|---|
| Address and parcel | Property identification |
| Use and occupancy type | Single-family dwelling, retail, office |
| Occupant load | Mostly for commercial spaces |
| Date issued | When final approval was given |
| Conditions | Temporary or limited approvals |
Finding a property’s CO
- Search the city or county building department’s online permit records.
- Request records by address or parcel number.
- Ask sellers for copies during a purchase.
Older homes may have no CO on file because they predate local requirements. Our guide to finding zoning shows where local land-use records live.
Why it matters for buyers
A missing CO for an addition, finished basement, or conversion may signal unpermitted work. That can affect insurance, financing, appraisal, and resale, and the buyer may become responsible for legalizing it. Ask about permits for any major changes.
Unpermitted work
Fixing unpermitted work often involves applying for permits after the fact, opening walls for inspection, and making corrections. Costs vary.
CO vs certificate of completion
Some departments issue a certificate of completion or final inspection approval for smaller projects, such as a deck, roof, or water heater, rather than a full certificate of occupancy. Both are signs the work was permitted and inspected. When reviewing records for a property, look for the final sign-off on each permit, not just whether a permit was issued. Open permits that never received a final inspection can surface during a sale and may need to be closed out.
Bottom line
A certificate of occupancy confirms a building passed inspections and may be used for its approved purpose. It is commonly required for new construction, major changes, and changes in use, and sometimes for sales. Check permit records before buying, especially for additions. Start with your parcel on the Platbookmapper map.
What is a certificate of occupancy FAQ
Do I need a certificate of occupancy to live in a house?
New construction usually requires one. Older homes may predate CO requirements.
How do I get a copy of a certificate of occupancy?
Contact the local building department or search its online permit records.
What is a temporary certificate of occupancy?
A limited approval allowing occupancy while minor items are completed.
Can you sell a house without a CO?
It depends on local law. Some places require a CO or inspection before sale.
What happens if an addition has no CO?
It may be unpermitted, which can affect insurance, financing, and resale.