Land Use & Zoning

In Virginia, a 'Certificate of Occupancy' (CO) is issued by the local building department when:

AA property is listed for sale
BA new or renovated building complies with the building code and is safe for occupancy✓ Correct
CA building is condemned
DA zoning variance is approved

Explanation

A Certificate of Occupancy is issued after final inspection confirms a new or substantially renovated building meets all applicable building codes. Lenders typically require a CO before funding a construction loan.

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