Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy is required for the occupancy, use, or change of use of any property in the City. There are two types of certificates of Occupancy. One is to certify that the new construction meets both the Building Code and the Zoning Ordinance. The other type is required of all new businesses prior to the issuance of a business license. This certifies that the proposed use complies with the Zoning Ordinance. A Certificate of Occupancy is required in the following situations:

1. Occupancy and use of a new structure.
2. Change in use of an existing building.
3. Occupancy and use of vacant land except for the raising of crops.
4. Change in the use of land except for the raising of crops.
5. Any change in use of a non-conforming use.
6. To obtain a business license for a new business or change of address.

In a case of undue hardship, a temporary or partial Certificate of Occupancy may be issued for up to six months provided that:

1. The site and building are in a safe and useable condition;
2. All site development requirements are substantially completed, but due to unavoidable delays such as adverse weather conditions, cannot be entirely completed in a reasonable time;
3. The owner or owner's agent provides the City with securities to ensure completion of all development requirements.