A Certificate of Use (C.U.), also known as a Zoning Permit in some counties, is a mandatory document that verifies your business is legally allowed to operate at a specific location. It assures the county that your business activity fits the zoning district and that the building’s structure is safe for that proposed use. Any new tenant, change of occupancy, or newly constructed commercial building requires a C.U. before you can open your doors. At Studio A Engineering, we act as your expert liaison, managing the technical requirements to ensure a smooth, efficient approval process and prevent costly delays.
Our Certificate of Use & Compliance Services
Zoning & Use Verification
The first step is confirming your business type is permitted in the property’s zoning district. We conduct thorough research to verify land use compatibility before you invest further in the location.
Building Code & Safety Review
We inspect the property to ensure it meets all requirements of the Florida Building Code, County Zoning Code, and the Fire Marshal’s Office for your specific business type.
As-Built & Floor Plan Drawings
If the county requires updated drawings, our team can create professional “as-built” plans or new floor plans that accurately reflect the space and its intended use for your application.
Change of Occupancy / New Tenant
When an existing building gets a new tenant or changes its use (e.g., from an office to a retail store), a new Certificate of Use is required to certify that the space is appropriate for the new activity.
New Construction & Alterations
All newly erected, altered, or enlarged commercial buildings must secure a Certificate of Use before they can be legally occupied. We oversee the final steps to get your new build approved.
C.U. vs. Local Business Tax
The C.U. approves the location for a specific use. A Local Business Tax Receipt is a tax on the activity itself. You need an approved C.U. first before you can apply for your business tax receipt.
