The application for the Certificate of Occupancy allows the building department to insure that the business is located in the proper zone. It also enables the building department and fire department to inspect the building and ascertain if it is in a safe condition for the proposed use. The fee is $25.
During this inspection, the prospective business owner will receive a checklist of items that need to be addressed (if any), prior to issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy. In most instances, if corrections are minor, the building official and fire marshal will work with the prospective business owner to allow for the business to open while the corrective action is being taken.