How To Get The District Of Columbia Certificate Of Occupancy (Apr. 2026)

To form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the District of Columbia, you must file your Articles of Organization with the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP). Once formed, you must obtain a basic business license before you can perform legal business operations.

However, you first need to provide either a District of Columbia Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) or a Home Occupation Permit (HOP) to apply. Both confirm that you have the right to conduct business on the DC property you have chosen.

You need a CofO if you lease or own commercial or office space in the district. I will explain how to obtain your certificate, the key DC CofO requirements, and how to prepare your required documents and inspections below.

District Of Columbia Certificate Of Occupancy Overview

A CofO is an official document confirming that a structure, building, or piece of land complies with DC zoning regulations (DCMR Title 11), DC Construction Codes, and the Green Building Act.

Its primary purpose is to confirm that the property can legally be used for a specific business purpose. Once obtained, you must provide your CofO number when applying for your LLC’s Basic Business License.

Your CofO obligations depend on your business. I’ve summarized the main District of Columbia CofO requirements in the table below so you know when you need one. You can find detailed guidance later in my article.

The cost of acquiring your CofO in the District of Columbia depends on your building size:

• All applicants must pay a $36.30 application fee.
• The additional fee is based on square footage.
• Most people pay between $75 and $125.

You don’t need to renew your CofO. However, you must obtain a final CofO if a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) was issued. This is because it will expire and can NOT be renewed.

Your application and approval processes should take approximately 7 business days. The District of Columbia will review your application and send you a draft CofO for you to review. Your CofO will be issued once you approve the draft and pay the required invoice.

1. CofO Types

You must learn which type of CofO you’ll need before beginning your application. There are multiple types with different document requirements and inspections. I’ve summarized the different types of certificates in the table below. Use it as a handy reference point when working out your business needs.

2. How To Prepare Your Required Documents And Inspections

You must obtain the required documents and permits before applying for your CofO. These are based on your LLC’s operating location and business activities. The table below briefly summarizes them. I’ve discussed these in more detail later on in the article.

How To Complete The CofO Form

You can begin your application once you’ve obtained the required documents based on your operating location and business activities.

You first need an AccessDC account to apply for your CofO. Continue following my sections below if you already have one. If not, I’ve guided you through how to obtain one later on in my article.

1. Getting Started

To begin, navigate to the AccessDC login page and click “Log in”. Then, log in with your email and password.

The system will then redirect you to the AccessDC Dashboard. Select “DOB Certifi” or use this link: Certifi.

2. Access Your Certifi Form

Click “Sign in with AccessDC” once you’re on the Certifi main page.

As you’ve already completed your AccessDC process, your Certifi account will be automatically created. Click “+ Add new application” on the main Certifi dashboard page.

3. Enter Your Property Address

In this section, you must provide your property address and property owner details.

a. Property Address

First, enter your property address details. These must include your:

• Street number.
• Street address.
• Street type: Click the dropdown list.
• Quadrant: Click the dropdown list.

Click “Search” once you’ve provided the required information.

Then, choose “Proceed with Application” once the “Application Submission Disclaimer” box pops up. 

b. Property Owner

If you scroll down, you should see the “Property owner Validation” section with one or more address options. Make sure you choose the right one. The system should show the property owner and their address.

Click “Save and Continue” once everything is complete.

4. Complete The Applicant Validation Process

Next, you need to tell the system whether you own the property. Choose between the following options:

1. “Property Owner”: If you own the business space.
2. “Business Owner/Tenant”: If you rent or lease.

Then, check the disclaimer box underneath.

The system will provide a contact questionnaire based on your answer.

a. Property Owner

If you chose “Property Owner,” you have to provide the landlord’s (or property owner’s), which is YOUR contact information in the “Business/ Person contact information” fields, including:

• Full legal name.
• Trade name: Your LLC’s name.
• Email address.
• Contact phone number.

Following this, you need to enter an “Applicant Address”. This can be the same as the address that you’re getting a CofO for. It must include the:

• Street number.
• Street address.
• Street type: Click the dropdown list.
• City.
• State (optional).
• Phone number.

Scroll to the bottom once you’re done and click “Save and Continue.”

b. Business Owner/ Tenant

Enter the landlord’s (or property owner’s) contact information if you chose “Business Owner/Tenant.”

Complete the following information in the “Property Owner Contact Information” section:

• Contact information: Name, email, and phone number of your landlord/ property owner.
• Property owner address: This is your landlord’s or property owner’s address. Enter the street number, street name, street type, city, state, and ZIP code. 

After this, enter your “Applicant/Tenant contact information.” This must include their:

• Business/Person contact information: Name, email address, and contact phone number (This can also be your LLC’s information).
• Applicant’s address: This can be your address or your LLC’s address. Provide the street number, street name, street type, city, state, and ZIP code. 

Click “Save and Continue” at the bottom of the page to move to the next step of your application process.

5. Confirm Whether You Have An Existing CofO

This section is used to confirm if you have an existing CofO.

a. No CofO

Choose “There is no valid CofO” if the following apply to your application:

• New construction.
• Temporary/Seasonal.
• New tenant buildout.
• Major renovation of an existing space/building that may have been previously occupied.

Click “Save and Continue” once you’ve chosen your application type.

b. Existing CofO

Choose “There is a valid CofO” if you’re making a change or revision. This may include:

• An ownership change.
• A change of existing use.
• A change of occupant load.

If you chose after September 2008, you can file it in the DOB database and link it to your application. Select the permit associated with your CofO during the permit step. Then, click “Search Database for CofO of the address.” Finally, select the certificate option and click “Save and Continue.”

If you chose before 2008, you can find it on the eRecords portal, download it, and then upload it to Certifi alongside your other documents. You will select your related permit during the permit step of your filing.

Your old permit might look like this:

6. Add Your Building Description

Next, you must add your building description. This should include a general business description and information regarding the existing building/space owner.

a. General Building Description

Describe the building and your business using the required fields. You may find some of these details on your permit, from your property manager, or in your rental agreement. Alternatively, you can call the DOB for help in locating your information.

Once you’ve done, click “Save.”

b. Existing Building/Space Owner

This section depends on the type of certificate you’re applying for. However, they all refer to you (the business owner) and your LLC. They do NOT refer to your landlord or the company owning the building that you’re renting.

Provide the following information if you’re applying for a CofO for a Change (use, ownership, or occupant load):

• The current condition of your building or space.
• The type of change that you’re requesting (owner, use, load).
• The current occupant load.
• The current use of the space.
• New or proposed owner (if changing ownership).
• New or proposed occupant load (if changing the load).
• New or proposed use (if changing use).

You must state the following information if you’re applying for a new construction, a new establishment, or a TCO:

• Proposed conditions of the building or space.
• Proposed occupant load.
• Proposed use of the space.

Click “Save and Continue” once you’ve completed the required fields.

7. Choose Your Required Permits

a. CofO Type

In the next section, state whether you want a permanent (most common) or CCO. Most people choose “Permanent.”

b. Issued Building Permit(s)

Next, click “Search for Permits.” The online system will assist you when searching for existing building permits for your chosen address. This includes the permits that you’ve applied for in the steps above.

Check the permit box with a date and description matching the last issued CofO.

Click “Check Inspection Results“, and the system will verify the permit and inspection.

c. Site Contact Information

Add the contact information of someone on site. This is needed in case the DOB needs to schedule additional inspections.

Once finished, click “Save and Continue” to proceed.

8. Filing Summary And Document Submission

a. Documents Attached

This section provides your filing summary and allows you to upload your required documentation. The system should show a list of the documents that must be uploaded:

1. Click each section to expand it.
2. Review the entered information.
3. Upload the documents as needed.

These documents contain the general and specific information mentioned in the first steps of your filing process.

b. Certification And Inspection(s) Date

Click the “I agree and acknowledge” box to certify that your application is truthful to the best of your knowledge.

Underneath, select a suitable DOB inspection date from the dropdown calendar. I recommend checking your email later for details regarding your inspection.

c. Process And Review Timeframes

Read the provided instructions and click the box underneath to agree to the terms. After this, click “Save and Continue” to finish your application.

9. Certificate Approval Process

You will be sent email updates during each step of your CofO application process:

• When your application is being reviewed by the required departments (and the District Department of the Environment, or DOEE, if needed).
• You’ll be sent a draft CofO to review after your applicable approvals and inspections are complete.
• Your final CofO will be ready to download once you’ve approved the draft and paid the required fees.

Your total filing cost is based on the size of your buildings:

• All applicants pay a $36.30 application fee plus an additional fee (based on square footage).
• Most applicants pay between $75 and $125.
• You’ll be given the exact amount before payment.

You can use the Certifi dashboard to see how your application is progressing. Here’s what it looks like right after you submit:

10. What If I Want To Cancel?

Click “Applications” in the left column if you want to cancel your filing process. Then, click the trash icon next to your application.

Creating Your AccessDC Account

1. Go To The Portal

First, go to the AccessDC login page and click “Sign up“. You can use this link if you can’t locate the sign-up button: AccessDC sign up.

2. Enter Your Information And Create A Password

Then, provide the following information:

• Your full name (first name and last name).
• Your email address (this will become your username).
• Your contact phone number.

Once you’ve completed the required fields, create your password. Ensure it follows the following requirements:

• It contains at least 8 characters.
• It has one lowercase letter.
• It has one uppercase letter.
• It has at least one special symbol.
• It does NOT contain any part of your username, first name, or last name.

3. Complete The Email Verification Process

Following this, the online system will send a verification email.

Go to your email and click “Activate account.”

4. Verify Your Phone Number (Optional)

Click the “Activate Account” button in your email to be taken to the phone verification page. You can either verify your phone number or click “Continue” to access your dashboard.

Do You Need To Obtain A CofO?

Your CofO obligations depend on your operating location and chosen business activities.

I’ve discussed the main requirements to help you better understand your requirements in the sections below.

1. You Rent A Commercial Space

Your CofO requirements depend on the building that you’re renting:

• You do NOT need to apply for your own if the building already has a CofO that allows your type of business to operate.
• You must apply for your own if your building has a CofO, but it does not allow your business activity.
• You must apply for a certificate before operating if your building has NO CofO.

2. You Own/Purchased A Commercial Space

You must obtain a CofO if you own or have recently purchased a commercial space and plan to operate there:

• You need to apply for a Change of Ownership if your property already has a CofO.
• You must apply for a new certificate before operating if your property does NOT have a CofO.

Required Documents And Inspections Before Applying

As I’ve already stated, you need to prepare several documents before beginning your application process to ensure it’s completed efficiently. I’ve written a detailed list of the required documents below, including the relevant contact points.

1. General Documents 

a. CofO Authorization Form (If Applicable)

If someone else applies for you (an agent or expeditor), the property owner or tenant must complete the CofO Authorization Form and sign it in the presence of a notary. The form must be printed and signed (digital versions will NOT be accepted).

b. Agreement

You must submit one of these approved documents to prove that you’re allowed to use the property (HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) documents are not accepted):

• A signed management agreement, sublease, deed, lease, or permission letter.
• A copy of the management agreement (for management companies).
• The original lease and sublease, or a signed permission letter from the property owner on company letterhead (for subtenants).

c. Previous Copies Of Certificate(s) Of Occupancy (If Applicable)

Access the eRecords page if your operating location has a previous CofO. It can help you to include the correct details in your application.

d. Tenant Consent Form (If Applicable)

The Tenant Inspection Form gives a landlord or property manager permission to check your background, income, credit, and employment information. This allows them to confirm your compliance and eligibility. It must be printed and filled out by hand.

e. Green Review (If Applicable)

Your green review requirements depend on your project type. You must gain preapproval and provide financial proof (bond, cash, escrow) to show you can meet the Green Building Act requirements if you’re conducting an Enterprise Green Community project.

For further information, contact the Department of Energy and Environment.

f. Additional Requirements For TCO Application

You must submit the following additional documents if you need a TCO:

1. A site or building plat: This will show existing and proposed structures.
2. An evacuation plan: This will show the areas that will be used, the ones that will not, and how people can safely exit.
3. Structural plans: These apply to tents and temporary structures. These must be signed and sealed by a DC-licensed design professional.
4. A letter from the property owner: This should explain why you need a TCO and list the specific floors, units, and areas that must be included.

2. Zoning Documents

You may need to submit zoning information alongside documents stating your LLC location and operating industry before applying for your CofO. I’ve listed the required documents and relevant contact points so you can track your progress.

a. For New Construction (Including Alteration And Repair)

You may need to submit the following additional documents if you’re carrying out new construction, alterations, or repairs:

1. An approved wall check: This is a land survey performed to locate certain new construction types. This may be required and must be carried out by an independent DC-registered land surveyor.
2. A letter from the property owner (if zoning approval was needed): This shows compliance with Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) or Zoning Commission conditions.
3. Timeline: This should discuss the timeframe for completing any remaining conditions.
4. A signed Green Area Ratio Landscape Checklist.
5. A Final Approval Notice.
6. Proof of final Housing Trust Fund payment.
7. A recorded Inclusionary Zoning covenant.

b. Eating Establishments

You must submit the following documents if you’re an eating establishment (fast food restaurants, prepared food shops, and restaurants):

• A completed Eating Establishment Questionnaire.
• A copy of your menu.

c. Automobile Sales

Automobile sales businesses must submit:

• A DC Surveyor’s Plat: This must show where buildings and vehicles will be located.
• A completed Auto Dealer Questionnaire.

d. Operating A Mobile Cart On Private Property

You must provide these documents if you want to operate a mobile cart on private property:

• A written permission letter from the property owner.
• A site plan or survey: This must show where buildings, parking spaces, and the cart will be located. You can NOT block required parking spaces with your cart.

3. DOB Permit

You must get a permit from the DOB before applying for a new CofO. This is required as you must link your permit and inspection to the Certifi system CofO process.

Read the DOB guide and contact them using the resources provided on this page: DOB How To Get A Permit.

4. Required Inspections

You need to complete several inspections in your operating location once you’ve obtained your permit from the DOB. These confirm occupant limits, approved use, and compliance with fire safety. Your zoning and fire-structural inspections will be completed together on your scheduled inspection date (if you require both).

You do NOT need to get an inspection if you’re submitting a new application. Furthermore, a new inspection is not always needed if you have an existing CofO, as it was completed during your original approval. In this case, you can link your existing permit with your inspection details.

Use the Tertius page to find a suitable inspector. This can be a third-party service or come directly from the DOB.

In the following sections, I’ve listed the requirements for each type of application inspection.

a. Core And Shell Applications

You must provide proof of final elevator inspections.

b. Conditional Certificate Of Occupancy (CCO) Applications

You must submit the following documents to complete your CCO application:

1. A letter from the inspection agency: This must list the occupied areas, issues, conditions, and how long the CCO should last.
2. A letter from the property owner: This must explain why you need a CCO and the requested timeframe.
3. A fire evacuation plan: This must show separation between the used and unused areas.

c. Structural/Fire Plan Review (New Construction, Alteration/Repairs)

Submit these required documents if you need a Structural/Fire Plan Review related to new construction or repairs:

1. A copy of the approved building permit/ existing CofO.
2. An approved Flood Design Elevation Certificate (if the property is in a floodplain).

d. Change Of Use Or Occupancy Classification

For a change of use or occupancy classification, submit the following:

1. A copy of the most recent CofO.
2. A building permit: This should approve the change, as required by the Existing Building Code.

e. Ownership Change

Complete these requirements when completing your ownership change application:

1. You only require a Structural/Fire Review if the owner or tenant is changing.
2. Additional reviews may be required if the ownership change includes construction, repairs, or a use change.
3. Clearly state whether it’s an “ownership change with alterations” or an “ownership change with no new work” in the detailed description section.

f. For Load Change

Submit the following when submitting your load change application:

1. Copies of the previous and most recent CofO.
2. An approved building permit: This must allow the occupant load change.

Contact Information For The DOB

Contact the DOB if you have questions regarding your LLC’s CofO:

• Phone: 202-671-3500.
• Online chat: Click the speech bubble on the DOB website.
• Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday: 8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M., Thursday: 9:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.

The Importance Of Obtaining Your CofO

You can not use a building, structure, or land in the District of Columbia for any purpose other than a single-family dwelling until a valid CofO has been issued under DCMR title 12A Section 110.3.

A CofO must be issued by the DOB to use a building, structure, or land in the District for purposes other than as a single-family home.

1. Penalties

You must obtain a building permit from the DOB before changing, building, or altering any structure in Washington, D.C. under DC Code § 6–641.09. Building plans must meet the required building codes and regulations before permits can be issued.

If you violate this law, the potential penalties include:

• Daily $100 fines: These apply for each day that the violation continues.
• Civil fines, penalties, and fees under DC law.
• Legal action: This is brought by the DC Attorney General or affected neighbors. This can include court orders to stop the work or use, correct or remove the violation, or to prevent occupancy of the building or land.
• Cease and desist orders: These are issued by the DOB ordering you to immediately stop the illegal construction work.

The following consequences are set under DC Code § 6–1406 and apply to anyone who violates any of the Construction Code provisions or orders;

• Fines of up to $2,000.
• Imprisonment for up to 90 days.
• Both for violating construction codes and related orders.

2. You Can’t Obtain Your Necessary Business License

You must obtain a district-level Business License before operating in Washington, D.C. However, according to the DLCP’s guidelines, you must obtain a CofO before starting your license application.

You face several consequences if you fail to obtain your required business license. For example, an insurance company without the required licenses may face the following:

• A $100 daily fine.
• Additional civil penalties and fees.

Frequently Asked Questions