Introduction
The last step in the formal development application and construction process is when an occupation certificate is issued.
You need an occupation certificate if you want to:
- occupy or use a new building or
- change the use of an existing building.
Occupation certificates are issued by your local council or a private certifier.
Eligibility
An application can only be made by a person who is eligible to appoint a principal certifier for the development. This is generally either:
- the beneficiary of the development consent or
- a person with the approval of the beneficiary.
When to apply
You can apply for an occupation certificate online using the NSW Planning Portal, either:
- when you apply for your development application (DA) or complying development certificate (CDC), or
- as a standalone application.
An occupation certificate can only be issued when the building or development:
- meets the required regulatory standards
- is suitable for occupation as required by its building classification.
Note: Developers/builders of class 2 buildings are required to give 6 to 12 months’ notice of their intention to apply for an occupation certificate.
What you need
- a MyServiceNSW Account or your NSW Planning Portal login details
- copies of documents for uploading such as:
- development consent or complying development certificate
- construction certificate
- fire safety certificate
- compliance certificate
- documents specific to your application (as requested by council)
- your fee payment.
How to apply
- Select the ‘Apply online’ button.
- Select ‘Log in with a Service NSW account’ or enter your NSW Planning Portal login details.
- Follow the prompts to complete your application, either:
- as a standalone application, or
- by connecting to an existing development application or complying development certificate application.
Note: For a step-by-step guide to making your online application, download Submitting an application for an occupation certificate – PDF.
More information
A partial occupation certificate can be issued for staged building works. A partial occupation certificate allows you to occupy the part of the building that’s been completed.