What is a Certificate of Occupancy in Washington, DC?

A Certificate of Occupancy (COO) is a legal document issued by the DC Department of Buildings that confirms a property’s approved use. It is required before occupying a new building, changing the use of a property, or after major renovations.

How do I apply for a Certificate of Occupancy in DC?

To apply for a DC Certificate of Occupancy, you must submit an application through the DOB’s SCOUT system, provide floor plans, zoning compliance documents, and pay applicable fees. Many businesses use permit expeditors to handle paperwork and speed up approvals.

What is a change of use permit in DC?

A change of use permit is required when converting a property’s use, for example from residential to commercial or retail to restaurant. The DC Department of Buildings reviews zoning, safety, and accessibility before approving the new use.

What is a DC public space permit?

A public space permit is required by the DC Department of Transportation (DDOT) for any work extending into sidewalks, streets, or alleys, such as curb cuts, driveways, sidewalk cafés, construction staging, and utility work.

What is a traffic control plan in DC?

A traffic control plan (TCP) is a safety plan required by DDOT for construction projects that impact streets or sidewalks. It details how traffic and pedestrians will be safely rerouted during construction.

Do commercial roofers need permits in Washington, DC?

Yes. Most commercial roofing projects require a building permit, and projects impacting public sidewalks or streets may also require DDOT public space permits and traffic control plans.

How long does it take to get a permit in DC?

Depending on the type, DC permits can take 2–12 weeks for approval. Working with an experienced permit expeditor can often reduce approval time by several weeks by avoiding errors and coordinating directly with reviewers.

What does a DC permit expeditor do?

A permit expeditor navigates complex DC agency requirements, prepares applications, submits paperwork, coordinates with reviewers, and resolves issues to secure permits faster and with fewer delays.

DC Commercial Roofing Permit Expeditor

Fast, accurate expediting for commercial roofing permits — keeping your projects on schedule and compliant.

✅ Trusted by 100+ DC contractors and property managers.

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Stay Compliant, Avoid Delays

Commercial roofing projects in Washington, DC require DOB-approved permits to ensure compliance with building codes, fire safety, and historic district requirements. Missing or delayed permits can stop work and cost thousands in lost time.

Comprehensive Support for Commercial Roofing Projects

🏗️ New Roof Installations – Compliance for full commercial roof replacements.

🔧 Repairs & Retrofits – Fast approvals for urgent repair projects.

🏢 Tenant Improvements – Roofing modifications for office, retail, or industrial spaces.

🏛️ Historic Buildings – Specialized support for DC’s protected properties.

🌳 Green & Solar Roofs – Permitting for sustainable and energy-efficient roofing systems.

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Your Partner in Roofing Permit Success

✅ 20+ Years of DC Experience – Deep knowledge of DOB processes.

✅ 95% First-Time Approval Rate – Error-free submissions save you weeks.

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“MCG Permits expedited our roofing permits in record time — saving our project from weeks of delays.” – DC Roofing Contractor”

— TJ Reider, Roofing Contractor

A Seamless Path from Application to Approval

Project Assessment – Review drawings and identify required permits.

Application Prep – Prepare and submit complete documentation.
Agency Coordination – Communicate with DOB, DDOT, and other DC agencies.
Tracking & Revisions – Manage reviewer feedback and resolve issues quickly.
Final Approval – Deliver permits so construction stays on schedule.

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Get Your Commercial Roofing Permit Approved Fast

Don’t let permitting delays hold up your roofing project. Partner with DC’s most trusted permit expediters.

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