Certificate of Occupancy (change of use to restaurant): Los Angeles restaurant guide

LADBS

What it is

LADBS issues a new Certificate of Occupancy when a space's legal use changes (e.g. retail or office to restaurant); the change-of-use permit triggers parking, accessibility, exiting and plumbing-fixture review.

When a restaurant needs it

When the existing CofO does not cover restaurant use, or for new buildings. Not required for a tenant improvement that keeps the same use.

How to apply

File a change-of-use building permit through plan check (per LADBS Information Bulletin P/GI 2026-021); after final inspections, ask your inspector for the CofO.

Documents you’ll need

Copy of existing Certificate of Occupancy and prior permits
Dimensioned parking layout
Disabled-access path of travel, restrooms and parking details
Health Department notes on plans
Construction details for walls/occupancy separations

Fee

Included in the permit's inspection fees

Processing time

CofO issued 1–7 days after final approvals

Renewal

None (stays with the building until the use changes again)

Who files

Filed by the architect/engineer of record with the building permit.

Good to know

A change of use can trigger parking and full accessibility upgrades — get the CofO from PRISM and have an architect assess before you sign the lease. RBP alcohol applications also require a copy of the CofO.

Official source

LADBS — requirements for changing the use of an existing building · LADBS — Certificate of Occupancy FAQs

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.