DC Certificate of Occupancy Expediting with 25+ Years of City Official Relationships
Streamlining Property Occupancy Permits Faster Through Established Insider City Connections
Free 15-Minute Consultation - (202) 729-8272
Why You Need a Certificate of Occupancy in DC
A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is legally required in Washington, D.C. whenever a property is occupied, a business opens, or the use of a building changes. Without one, your business or project cannot operate.
Unfortunately, the DC permitting process is complex and often leads to frustrating delays. Missing documents or application errors can cost weeks of time and thousands of dollars in lost revenue.
At MCG Permits, we make the process fast and stress-free. Our local team handles every step so your Certificate of Occupancy is approved quickly and correctly the first time.
Our Expertise Saves You Time and Money
✅ Fast-Tracked Applications – Avoid delays and get approved sooner.
✅ Fewer Rejections – We prepare flawless paperwork tailored to DC requirements.
✅ Experienced DC Specialists – Years of experience navigating DCRA processes.
✅ Complete Service – Residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects covered.
Step 1 – Free Assessment
Tell us about your property or project. We’ll review your needs at no cost.
Step 2 – Preparation
Our experts gather the required documentation and prepare all forms for submission.
Step 3 – Submission & Approval
We file your application with DC agencies and track it through final approval.
How Our DC Certificate of Occupancy Process Works
Types of Certificate of Occupancy Services We Handle
New Business Occupancy – Restaurants, retail stores, offices, and more across Washington, D.C.
Change of Use – For properties converting from residential to commercial or other uses.
Renovations & Additions – Projects that require updated occupancy compliance.
Multi-Family & Mixed-Use Properties – Expert handling of complex DC occupancy requirements.
- Pastor Coley, Little Rock Church of Christ, Inc.
"After 65 years without a Certificate of Occupancy, M.C.G. Permit Consultants made the impossible possible. Their expertise and dedication finally brought our Little Rock Church of Christ into full compliance. Outstanding service!"
-Kevin Tien, Moon Rabbit Restaurant
“MCG Permits made the Certificate of Occupancy process seamless. We were able to open our restaurant on schedule without delays. Their knowledge of DC requirements saved us weeks of time.”
Ready to Secure Your Certificate of Occupancy?
Don’t let DC’s complex system delay your opening or project. MCG Permits ensures your Certificate of Occupancy is approved fast and without errors.
Call For A Free Consultation 202-729-8272
Frequently Asked Questions About DC Certificates of Occupancy
Frequently Asked Questions: Certificate of Occupancy in DC
What is a Certificate of Occupancy in Washington, DC?
A Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) is required by the DC Department of Buildings to legally occupy a building for a specific use. It verifies compliance with zoning, building codes, and safety requirements.
When do I need a Certificate of Occupancy?
You need a Certificate of Occupancy when changing the use of a property, leasing a new commercial space, opening a business, or after major renovations that affect occupancy or zoning compliance.
How long does it take to get a Certificate of Occupancy in DC?
Approval timelines vary, but with expert expediting services, most Certificate of Occupancy applications in DC can be processed within 4–8 weeks, depending on complexity and agency workload.
Can MCG Permit Consultants help with change of use applications?
Yes. We specialize in change of use applications, ensuring your project meets zoning, safety, and building code requirements to avoid costly delays and rejections.
What documents are required for a Certificate of Occupancy?
Typical requirements include architectural drawings, zoning compliance documents, occupancy load calculations, fire and life safety compliance details, and in some cases, traffic or parking studies. Our team helps prepare and submit all necessary documentation.
Start Your DC Certificate of Occupancy Application Today
Take the first step toward faster approval. Submit your project details now and let our experts handle the process.
Call Today 202-729-8272