<P> A certificate of occupancy is a document issued by a local government agency or building department certifying a building's compliance with applicable building codes and other laws, and indicating it to be in a condition suitable for occupancy . </P> <P> The procedure and requirements for the certificate vary widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and on the type of structure . In the United States, obtaining a certificate is generally required whenever: </P> <Ul> <Li> a new building is constructed </Li> <Li> a building built for one use is to be used for another (e.g., an industrial building converted for residential use) </Li> <Li> occupancy of a commercial or industrial building changes, or ownership of a commercial, industrial, or multiple - family residential building changes </Li> </Ul> <Li> a new building is constructed </Li>

Who is typically responsible for obtaining the certificate of occupancy from the local jurisdiction