Permit guides › Washington, D.C. › DC-CR-03

Certificate of Occupancy (C of O): Washington, D.C. restaurant guide

Department of Buildings (DOB)

What it is

Confirms your space's use complies with zoning and construction codes and sets your occupant load and seating, which ABCA uses for your alcohol license.

When a restaurant needs it

Every restaurant needs one in its name before the DC Health pre-opening inspection, the Basic Business License and the ABC license, including when taking over an existing restaurant.

How to apply

Apply on Certifi after final inspections. Eating establishments submit a completed questionnaire and menu.

Documents you’ll need

Signed lease, deed or owner permission letter
Agent Authorization Form if an agent files
Previous C of O (from eRecords)
Tenant Inspection Form
Eating establishment questionnaire and menu
For new construction/alterations: approved wall check and DOEE final approval notice where applicable

Fee

$42 for up to 5,000 sq ft ($42 + $0.004/sq ft for 5,001–50,000 sq ft; higher tiers above that), plus a $33 filing fee and 10% enhancement fee (per DOB fee schedule)

Processing time

Approval typically about 7 business days

Renewal

New C of O needed for a change of use, occupant load or occupant

Who files

The tenant/owner or an authorized agent (with DOB's Agent Authorization Form) applies.

Good to know

Changing the occupant load needs an approved building permit that allows it. Set your seat count with your liquor license tier in mind: ABCA fees step up at 100 capacity.

Official source

DOB: get a Certificate of Occupancy · Certifi: apply and track

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