What steps do I need to take for a Certificate of Occupancy?
Overview
All businesses in the City of Georgetown require a valid Certificate of Occupancy Permit before occupying the business space or opening to the general public. All businesses in the ETJ may require a fire permit. This applies to all stand-alone buildings as well as leasable tenant space in multi-tenant buildings. In addition, a Certificate of Occupancy is not transferable. Anytime the business owner, business address, or business name changes, a new Certificate of Occupancy is required.
If any construction is planned, such as demolishing, adding, or moving walls, windows, or doors, a building permit will be required.
If adding or moving an electric, plumbing, or HVAC system, a building permit will be required.
If a change of use is planned, a building permit will be required. For example, if the previous use of the space was an office and the new use of the space would be for a restaurant, then building permits will be required before a certificate of occupancy can be applied for.
Helpful resources