Understanding the Duration of a Certificate of Occupancy and Related Permits

A certificate of occupancy (CO) is a document granted by a local government to permit the safe, legal occupancy or use of a building or structure. In this article, we will explore how long a certificate of occupancy typically lasts and discuss related permits and terms that can be confusing.

The Typical Duration of a Certificate of Occupancy

A certificate of occupancy typically lasts for a period of about 90 days. This means that while the temporary CO is valid for this duration, the underlying permit or construction project should be completed and a final CO issued before the deadline expires.

It is important to note that temporary COs are issued for a short term and generally cannot be renewed once the temporary permit expires. This document is a provisional authorization that allows the structure to be occupied only until a more permanent, final CO is issued. Once the final CO is obtained, the property can be safely and legally occupied or used.

Understanding the Final Certificate of Occupancy

The final certificate of occupancy is a document indicating that a building or structure has been inspected and meets all local zoning, code, and safety requirements. This is the permanent CO that confirms the property is safe and legally habitable. Before obtaining a final CO, the property needs to pass all inspections and meet all necessary permits and conditions.

The temporary CO serves as a transition document between the issuance of a permit and the issuance of a final CO. This temporary CO is usually granted when the final inspection is being conducted or when the project is nearly complete. After a period of time—typically around 90 days—the temporary CO will eventually expire, and the owner must either obtain a final CO or vacate the premises.

Related Permits and Terms

While discussing CO, it is crucial to differentiate it from other permits and terms that may be similar or related but have distinct meanings. One such term is “Certificate of Substantial Completion”, which is often confused with a CO.

Certificate of Substantial Completion

A Certificate of Substantial Completion (CSC) is a document indicating that a building project has reached a significant point in the construction process and can now be used or occupied with certain limitations. It signifies that the majority of the work has been completed, although some portions may still be in progress.

While a CO is concerned with the overall safety and legality of the entire structure, a CSC focuses on the project's progress. A CSC is often issued before the full completion of the project but indicates that it is safe for partial occupation. This can be a useful interim step, allowing the building to be occupied without full completion being certified.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a certificate of occupancy typically lasts for about 90 days, serving as a temporary permit that must be followed by a final CO to ensure the building is fully compliant with local codes and regulations.

Differentiating a CO from other terms like a CSC is important for ensuring that property owners understand the requirements for fully legal and safe occupancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a certificate of occupancy?
A certificate of occupancy ensures that a building meets all local zoning, code, and safety requirements, allowing it to be safely and legally occupied. How long does a temporary certificate of occupancy usually last?
A temporary certificate of occupancy generally lasts for about 90 days and must be followed by a final CO to ensure full compliance. When can a property owner start using a building with a temporary certificate of occupancy?
A property owner can begin using a building with a temporary CO, but they should ensure that all required final inspections are completed and a final CO is obtained to fully occupy the property legally. What is the difference between a certificate of substantial completion and a certificate of occupancy?
A certificate of substantial completion signifies that a substantial portion of the building has been completed and can be used with limitations, while a certificate of occupancy confirms that the entire building is safe and fully complies with all regulations, allowing for full occupancy.

Understanding these differences is crucial for property owners and developers to ensure that buildings meet all necessary standards and regulations, ensuring the safety and legal use of the property.