certificate of occupancy

certificate of occupancy (C/O)

Almost always referred to simply as a “C.O.”A document issued by a local government certifying that a structure has passed all required inspections and is ready for occupancy. It is always required at the completion of any construction when repairs require a construction permit. It is also often required when a property changes character from residential to commercial, even if no construction takes place, and is sometimes required before issuance of a new business license when a property changes hands. As a de facto method of enforcement, many utility companies will not permit service until receipt of a valid certificate of occupancy.