Why is a Certificate of Occupancy needed?

The Fire Department uses the Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.) information to help identify potential hazards that may be encountered while responding to emergency calls. The Post Office requires a current C.O. with the correct address before mail will be delivered. When the building is new, the C.O. verifies that it conforms to the most current life safety standards. When the building is existing, has an ownership change, tenant change, or change in how the building is used, a new C.O. is required to provide that the building is still safe to occupy.

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1. Where is the Building Inspections, Permits, & Code Enforcement Department located and what are the hours of operations?
2. What forms of payment are accepted?
3. When is a permit required?
4. What is a Certificate of Occupancy?
5. When is a Certificate of Occupancy required?
6. Why is a Certificate of Occupancy needed?
7. Can a Certificate of Occupancy be revoked?
8. How long does the review process take on residential projects?
9. Can a permit be picked up without the general contractor or subcontractors being listed on the permit?
10. What construction can occur on property before issuance of a building permit, and when can dirt work commence on a project?
11. Is a permit required to occupy or use a building?
12. Can application be made for a building permit while the site is being platted or zoning is pending?