What must be issued by the building official before a building can be inhabited?

A building cannot be legally occupied until a Certificate of Occupancy is issued by the building official. This certificate signifies that the building has been inspected and meets all applicable building codes, safety standards, and zoning regulations. It serves as an assurance that the structure is safe for use and occupancy.

Requiring this certificate ensures that all necessary compliance checks have been made, including plumbing, electrical systems, fire safety measures, and general construction quality. Without this certificate, occupants may expose themselves to safety hazards, as the building has not been officially deemed suitable for habitation.

Other potential options do not confer this specific approval status. A Certificate of Safety may suggest that certain safety measures are in place, while a Permit End Certificate typically indicates that a construction permit has been finalized but does not address occupancy specifics. A Certificate of Completion generally signifies that a project has been completed, but it is not the same as a Certificate of Occupancy, which is directly relevant to legal habitation of the building.