Introduction
The issue of the final occupation certificate (OC) is the last step in the formal development application and construction process.
You need an OC if you want to:
- occupy or use a new building, or
- change the use of an existing building.
OCs are issued by your local council or a private certifier.
They can be applied for online via the NSW Planning Portal, either:
- when you apply for your development application (DA) or complying development certificate (CDC), or
- as a standalone application.
Eligibility
For a certificate to be issued, the building or development must:
- meet the required regulatory standards
- be suitable for occupation (in accordance with its Building Code classification).
Note: Developers/builders of class 2 buildings are required to give 6 to 12 months’ notice of their intention to apply for an OC.
What you need
- a MyServiceNSW Account or your NSW Planning Portal login details
- copies of documents for uploading, which may include but are not limited to:
- development consent or complying development certificate
- construction certificate
- fire safety certificate
- compliance certificate
- documentation specific to your application (as requested by council)
- your 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 DA/CDC application.
Note: If you’d like a step-by-step guide, download Submitting an application for an occupation certificate – PDF.
More information
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.