Certificate of Occupancy Guidelines
The purpose of a Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.) is to ensure the safety of the occupants and the public by verifying that the proposed use is consistent with the type of building and the zoning. A C.O. is required for all businesses in the city.
New Construction
A C.O. Inspection for a Building Permit consists of a Building, Landscaping, Engineering, and Lot grade approval before a C.O. can be released.
Reoccupy an Existing Structure
A C.O. Inspection for Re-Occupancy requires a Building Department Inspection before utilities be released.
Applying for a C.O.
- Application is made on the form provided and the inspection fee paid.
- The Building Official or Plans Examiner determines the zoning of the property and if the requested use is appropriate in that district.
- If the occupancy group is different than the previous occupant then plan review may be required prior to requesting an inspection.
- Copies of the application are distributed to the Building Inspector and the Fire Marshal.
- The applicant should have the address numbers posted, the entry door unlocked, and call 817-748-8214 to request inspections. Inspections will be made within one working day by both building and fire departments.
- The Building Inspector will verify the required parking surface is provided, any required landscaping is maintained and the building structural and mechanical systems are maintained according to the codes in effect when built or when the occupancy group was changed to its present occupancy. Also anything found to be dangerous, unsanitary, or a fire hazard will be required to be brought up to the present codes.
- The Fire Inspector will inspect all items regulated by the Fire Code and require appropriate connections.
- In the event the occupancy includes a food service or food service or food handling operation the applicant must also apply to the Tarrant County Health Department for permit and inspections.
- Accessibility for disabled persons as may be required by state and or federal laws is solely the responsibility of the owner and or occupant of the premises. The building inspector will only enforce items required by the building code.
- Upon approval of all the required inspections the Certificate of Occupancy will be issued and the utility companies notified to provide service upon the applicant's request.