C OF O Handout Information Revised 6-2016-TD6-2016 Rev TD
CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (C OF O)
WHEN IS A CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (C OF O) REQUIRED?
No building or structure shall be used or occupied, and no change in existing occupancy classification of a building or structure or portion thereof, or change in business ownership, or change in tenant occupancy, or building square footage shall be made until a
Certificate of Occupancy has been issued by the Inspection Division. This includes the intent to “sub-lease” building space from
one occupant to another. For further clarification or assistance, please call (210) 619-1750.
WHAT IS REQUIRED FOR A “C of O”?
An application is required, which can be obtained at the Inspection Division. Information necessary to complete the application is as follows:
Business Name Type of Occupancy
Business Address Size of Building/Square Feet
Name of Occupant Number of Employees
Business Phone Number/Cell Phone Number Number of Stories of Building
Sales Tax ID Number, if applicable Number of On-Site Parking Spaces
Building Owner’s Name
Building Owner’s Complete Mailing Address IS AN INSPECTION REQUIRED BEFORE I CAN OPEN MY BUSINESS?
Yes. You must obtain an inspection by the Building Inspector and Fire Marshal, as well as the Health Inspector, if the business is a food establishment. Your request for an inspection can be scheduled within one to two business days provided your application
has been submitted and applicable fees are paid.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A “C of O”?
This depends on the results of the inspection and whether there are any code violations or life safety issues that need correcting prior to occupancy. It also depends on the extent of any repairs or remodeling of the building if applicable.
HOW DO I KNOW THE TYPE OF BUSINESS I WANT TO OPEN IS ALLOWED IN THE CITY?
The Inspection Division determines all business occupancies based on the proposed use and the zoning district where the
business is proposed. Staff will assist you in determining if the type of business you wish to operate is allowed in the area you are
considering.
WHAT IS THE COST FOR A “C of O”?
Please refer to the current Certificate of Occupancy application or the schedule of fees provided on City of Schertz website at www.schertz.com . If any permits are required for work at the business either before or after the inspection, additional fees will apply.
IS A “C of O” REQUIRED IF THE NAME OR OWNERSHIP OF A BUSINESS IS CHANGED?
Yes, a change in tenant, or the name of the business, or the ownership of the business requires a new “C of O” application.
AM I ALLOWED TO OCCUPY THE BUSINESS BEFORE I OBTAIN THE “C of O”?
No, an approved “C of O” is required prior to any occupancy or use of the building location. It may be possible for Inspectors to authorize a Temporary “C of O” at their discretion and on a case-by-case basis following the inspection process. Consideration
must be given to life, health and safety as well as compliance with application requirements.
PLANNING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INSPECTIONS DIVISION 1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY, BLDG. #1
SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154-1634 (210) 619-1750, FAX (210) 619-1769