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A Certificate of Occupancy/Completion (CO/CC) validates that a building (or renovation project) has been completed in compliance with applicable code(s).
A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is issued for new construction, remodeling, renovation or change of use (i.e., new structure or addition, removing internal walls or change of use from a school to a restaurant).
A Certificate of Completion (CC) is issued for standalone fences, windows, similar permits and shell buildings. For smaller projects like a fence installation, a CO or CC is not required, but can be requested.
To receive a CO/CC, a fee is required along with approved inspections and completion holds. A Certificate of Occupancy is a prerequisite to obtaining a Certificate of Use.
The Online Certificate of Occupancy/Completion allows you to apply, print and search CO/CC history for a property using the address, certificate and/or permit number.
Email [email protected] or call 786-315-2100 for further assistance.
To search for Certificates of Use and/or check the status of a CU application, visit the portal and enter your process number in the search. To search by address, select "Advanced Search" and enter an address to see if a property has an issued Certificate of Use.
For assistance, you must create an account and register through the online registration system, MeetQ, to meet with Zoning staff. Consults can be scheduled in-person, by phone or virtually on the specified days and times listed on the MeetQ homepage. For further assistance, email [email protected] or call 786-315-2660.
How do I obtain a CO/CC?
Once your final inspection has been approved and the applicable completion holds satisfied, you may apply, print or view certificates online at Certificate of Occupancy/Completion.
Check applicable inspections and completion holds using your Permit Card and/or the Building permit records menu.
Fees may apply; check Building Fee Schedule for more information.
What is a temporary CO/CC (TCO/TCC)?
A TCO/TCC grants residents/building owners the right to occupy the space based on certain conditions, and is only valid for a temporary period.
To apply for Temporary Certificate of Completion (TCC) or Occupancy (TCO) a completed application must be submitted.
Applications may be submitted through our portal or in-person at the Zoning Permit Section at the Permitting and Inspection Center. The quickest way to obtain your certificate is to submit via the portal.
The application is reviewed to ensure that the type of business is permitted in the zoning district where it will be located. If the business activity is not allowed there, the application will be rejected. If the business is allowed on the property, the application will be handled.
Affidavits, declarations or other forms may be required, depending on the type of business proposed, and depending on the zoning classification of the property. In some instances, plans may be required.
All businesses must be reviewed by Environmental Resources Management (DERM), which is also located at the Permitting and Inspection Center.
Do I need an inspection for a CU?Some businesses require inspection before a CU can be issued. To schedule an inspection, call 786-315-2660 and have your process number ready.
How do I pay?Complete your payment using the ePayment Services or in person using cash, personal checks and/or major credit cards.
In most cases, fees for the CU are based on the square footage of the area to be occupied plus an environmental fee and a 7.5 percent surcharge.
Can a CU be transferred?A CU cannot be transferred, and it cannot be used at another location by the same entity. Each new occupant must apply for a new CU by filling out the required forms and paying the appropriate fees. The applicants must comply with all the conditions of the specific use as stated in the Code and the conditions of any applicable resolutions and agreements.
Does my CU expire?Most Certificates of Use are issued on a permanent basis. If the business does not move, expand, change ownership, name or business activity, the Certificate remains valid.
Still, some Certificates of Use are required to be renewed annually, as detailed in the next section.
What is a temporary CU?If the structure is substantially or partially complete, and is missing only minor items for final inspection, a structure may be occupied under a temporary CU. A temporary CU is valid for a maximum of 90 days.
Your new business location may or may not comply with the requirements for your activity. For example, if the location was an office before and now you wish to open a retail store, you will need to change the use/occupancy to comply with retail store requirements.
Prior to opening a business in a new location, you must verify the information below with the Zoning Section by providing the address where your business will be located (an unincorporated address will be required):
You may contact the Zoning Section by calling 786-315-2660, emailing [email protected] , or registering for a service list using MeetQ.
To establish a new use/occupancy, a building permit is required to verify that the location complies with the requirements of the Florida Building Code, Miami-Dade Codes, and all other applicable state and federal codes. Upon obtaining your permit, and receiving final inspection approvals, you will obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (that allows you to occupy the space). Once you have received your CO, you are required and must obtain your Certificate of Use (that allows you to operate your business).
Guidelines to assist in establishing use/occupancy:Once the building permit has been issued, any subsidiary trade permits and completion holds requirements must be satisfied. Additionally, you must complete the work and receive the required final inspection approvals. A Certificate of Occupancy will be issued for that use/occupancy.
After obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy, you may apply for a Certificate of Use via the Submission Portal.
