Certificate of Occupancy for Business Location
A Certificate of Occupancy is a legal document that indicates that you can use your building or space legally. It makes sure that your space meets safety and other requirements.
Registering a Business
You will need a Certificate of Occupancy before registering for a business license with the City.
To get a Certificate of Occupancy:
1. Get a Zoning Compliance Permit
Visit the Division of Planning and ask for the zoning compliance questionnaire.
Division of Planning 101 East Vine Street Suite 700 Lexington, KY 40507 Telephone: 859-258-3160 Fax: 859-258-3163
What you need to know:
- You will need to bring a detailed description of your business activity
- Hours for Division of Planning Office:
2. Apply for Certificate of Occupancy
Home-based businesses
Home-based businesses that do not bring customers/clients to the home are simple to register. Mail or bring the following to the Division or Building Inspection for an immediate Certificate of Occupancy:
- your zoning compliance permit
- $10 fee
Businesses with construction
Businesses in commercial zones who are performing construction will have different requirements to meet before applying for a Certificate of Occupancy. Please call 859-258-3770 to sign-up for a plan review session with The Division of Building Inspection. They take place each Tuesday morning.
Businesses with no construction
If your business is in a commercial location with no construction, you will need:
- zoning compliance permit
- a site plan
- a letter of permission from the owner or owner’s agent
- $25 fee
Food vendors and fireworks tents/stands have to meet additional standards.
Mail, fax, or bring your Certificate of Occupancy application to:
101 E. Vine St. Second Floor Lexington, KY 40507 Telephone: [859-258-3770](859-258-3770) Fax: 859-258-3780