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.

MCG Blog

Welcome to our blog, where we provide information and guidance on the permitting process in DC. We aim to help individuals and businesses navigate the requirements and regulations involved in obtaining necessary permits. Please find below an overview of the permitting process, including the types of permits required, application procedures, and relevant contact information.

RAUSHAN MURSHID 9/25/25 RAUSHAN MURSHID 9/25/25

DC Building Permit Guide for Builders, Developers, Contractors: Your Complete Roadmap to Success

Navigating the DC building permit process can make or break your construction project timeline and budget. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a contractor new to the District, understanding the intricacies of DC permit requirements is essential for project success. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about securing DC building permits efficiently and avoiding costly delays.

RAUSHAN MURSHID 9/24/25 RAUSHAN MURSHID 9/24/25

Out-of-State Contractors: Navigating DC Permit Requirements

Essential guide for out-of-state contractors working in Washington DC. Learn permit requirements, licensing needs, and compliance strategies to avoid costly delays and violations.

RAUSHAN MURSHID 9/8/25 RAUSHAN MURSHID 9/8/25

Understanding Postcard Permits in Washington D.C.: Risks, Realities, and Expert Navigation

Think a postcard permit is a quick fix for your home renovation? Think again. In the complex world of D.C. construction, what seems like a simple shortcut could cost you thousands. Discover how a seemingly innocent permit mistake can trigger stop work orders, unleash devastating fines starting at $1,000 per work discipline, and potentially derail your entire project.

RAUSHAN MURSHID 8/28/25 RAUSHAN MURSHID 8/28/25

7 D.C. Permits That Could Devastate Your Project Budget

Every contractor in Washington D.C. has heard the horror stories - projects that went from profitable to financial disasters because of permit complications. After 25 years of navigating D.C.'s permit landscape and managing over 1,000 projects, I've seen which permits consistently catch contractors off-guard.

RAUSHAN MURSHID 8/19/25 RAUSHAN MURSHID 8/19/25

The Complete Georgetown Permitting Guide: Navigating Historic District Requirements in Washington, D.C.

Georgetown's cobblestone streets and Federal-style architecture make it one of Washington's most coveted neighborhoods. However, this historic charm comes with a complex web of permitting requirements that can overwhelm even experienced property owners. As a permit expediter who has guided hundreds of Georgetown projects through the approval process, I've created this comprehensive guide to help residents and property owners understand exactly what's required for their projects.

RAUSHAN MURSHID 8/17/25 RAUSHAN MURSHID 8/17/25

Understanding Postcard Permits in Washington D.C.: A Comprehensive Guide to Streamlined Construction Approvals

Postcard permits, officially known as "Express Permits" or "Over-the-Counter Permits" in Washington D.C., are simplified building permits designed for straightforward, low-risk construction projects. The nickname "postcard permit" comes from the fact that these applications are typically no larger than a postcard and can often be approved within minutes or hours rather than the weeks or months required for traditional building permits.