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 frequently results in frustrating delays. Missing documents or application errors can cost weeks 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.

How Our DC Certificate of Occupancy Process Works

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.

Schedule Your Free Assessment

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.

Trusted by Property Owners Across DC

“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.”
— Kevin Tien, Moon Rabbit

"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!"

- Pastor Coley, Little Rock Church of Christ, Inc.

Ready to Secure Your Certificate of Occupancy?

Get Started Today

Call Now For Free Consultation: (202) 729-8272

Frequently Asked Questions About DC Certificates of Occupancy

What is a Certificate of Occupancy in DC?
It’s a legal document issued by Washington, D.C. certifying that a property complies with zoning and building codes and is safe for use.

Who needs a C of O?
Any business, property conversion, or project that changes the use of a building in Washington, D.C. requires one.

How long does it take to get a C of O in DC?
Timelines vary, but with MCG Permits, approvals are faster thanks to our expertise and experience.

Can you help with complex projects?
Yes — from multi-family properties to mixed-use developments, we handle all types of Certificate of Occupancy requirements.