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 10/31/25 RAUSHAN MURSHID 10/31/25

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A BUILDING PERMIT IN D.C.? TIMELINE BREAKDOWN FOR 2025

How long does it take to get a building permit in Washington, D.C. in 2025? From pre-submission prep to final approval, this timeline breakdown covers residential, commercial, and expedited permits—plus trade permits, historic reviews, and common delays. Find out what to expect and how to speed things up.

MCG Blog

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A BUILDING PERMIT IN D.C.? TIMELINE BREAKDOWN FOR 2025

Simply Getting it Done. Evaluate. Advise. Expedite.

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