Who issues the Certificate of Occupancy?

The Certificate of Occupancy is a crucial document that is typically issued by building officials or inspectors who have the authority to ensure that a building complies with applicable building codes, zoning laws, and other safety regulations. In most jurisdictions, this responsibility often falls to a representative from the local government, such as a building inspector or a designated agency. Those involved in the process, like the fire marshal and other inspectors, do play important roles in the assessment of safety and compliance, particularly concerning fire safety regulations.

In particular, the fire marshal contributes to the evaluation of a building's adherence to fire safety codes, which can be a part of the overall assessment before a Certificate of Occupancy is issued. Their approval may be mandatory to ensure that the building is safe for occupancy from the standpoint of fire hazards and safety protocols. Therefore, the option of fire marshals and inspectors aligns closely with the procedural steps necessary to grant a Certificate of Occupancy, making it a valid response in this context.

The roles of city planners and general contractors do not typically include the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. City planners are more involved in land use and development regulations rather than the final inspection and approval process for building occupancy. General contractors are focused on the construction process and ensuring that