What is a Certificate of Occupancy?
Definition: What Does the Term Certificate of Occupancy Mean?
A certificate of occupancy is a formal means for a municipality to allow the occupancy of a structure. In most instances the approval of various agencies, such as the Health Department, Fire Marshal, Building Department, etc are necessary for the municipality to issue a formal CO for a structure and or space. The issuance of a CO allows the space to be officially occupied and indicates that all codes and responsibilities have been properly met by the contractor.