Occupant Load Certificate (places of assembly, 50+ in one room): Miami restaurant guide

City of Miami Fire-Rescue — Fire Prevention Bureau

What it is

A posted certificate showing the maximum number of people allowed, required for restaurants, bars and clubs that host 50 or more people in one room.

When a restaurant needs it

Assembly spaces with 50+ occupants, at opening, after renovations, a name change, or a new CU application.

How to apply

Complete the ProjectDox pre-application, upload plans and occupant load calculations, pass the City inspection, then download the certificate from ProjectDox.

Documents you’ll need

City-approved plans with occupant load calculations
Plumbing fixture count per Florida Building Code
Gross and net area and seating layout with dimensions
Life-safety calculations per NFPA

Fee

Varies — not listed on the City page.

Processing time

Varies; typically 2–4 weeks including inspection.

Renewal

Reissued on renovation, name change or new CU; display it permanently.

Who files

The owner, architect or expediter submits; plans should come from your design professional.

Good to know

At 50+ occupants, exits need panic hardware and the CU application requires this certificate. A 44-inch minimum egress width and two or more exits may apply.

Official source

City of Miami — Occupant Load Certificate

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