Apply for an Occupation Certificate

An Occupation Certificate is required for any new building work, or change of use of a building, that is subject to development consent or a Complying Development Certificate. Occupation Certificates are not required for buildings which are exempt development.

An Occupation Certificate is issued under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and verifies that the Principal Certifying Authority is satisfied the building is suitable to occupy.

There are two types of Occupation Certificates

An Part Occupation Certificate:

A 'part occupation certificate' can be issued for staged projects/works. This certificate allows you to occupy the part of the building that’s been completed. These are generally only issued for commercial and multi residential developments.

A final Occupation Certificate:

Allows the building to be occupied or used, including alterations or extensions, or the new use of an existing building.

Submit an application

Step 1.Create an account or log-in

Head to the NSW Planning Portal to login. Or follow the prompts to create an account. 

Step 2.Apply

Once your account is set up, you can submit your applications via the portal.  

Complete the online application for a Occupation Certificate (OC). See the guide on how to apply for an OC.

Step 3.Upload your documents

Depending on the type of works or use, there will be certain documentation that you will be required to lodge with your application. 

Step 4.Lodge for review

Once the application is submitted through the Portal, an initial review will be carried out to check the information provided is sufficient for Council to accept.

If we need more information before the application can be accepted, an officer will contact you to request this information or for further clarification. Once adequate information is provided, the application can be accepted.

Step 5.Application is ready to be accepted

When the application has been reviewed and considered ready for lodgement, an invoice will be sent to you for payment of the associated fees.

Assessment of your application will not commence until the fees have been received by Council.

Step 6.Assessment of the application

Once fees have been paid, the application will be registered. A site inspection will then be organised.

Officers will contact you if anything further is required.

If you need assistance using the Planning Portal, please view the Department's Help, Support and Training Page or you can call 03 5888 5100 for additional support.

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