Change of Use / Occupancy

A new use can change the demands on the structure, ventilation, electrical supply, plumbing and life-safety systems. Describe both the current use and the proposed use, including equipment and expected occupancy.

Engineering help may be needed when converting a space or responding to review comments about its new use. Discuss the proposed use with the reviewing authority before assuming the existing systems are suitable.

Confirm the engineering scope with the professional you engage and any permit requirements with the local building department.

• Converting a store into a restaurant
• Adapting an office for a different business use

Related permit topics include after the fact, as-built permit, code compliance, conversion, legalization and permit correction.

This page does not say whether a permit is required. Ask the local building department which approvals and documents your project needs.

• unpermitted work

Start with a short description. These details can help define the scope, but you do not need everything ready to request a quote.

• The project city or county, and the property address if known
• What you want to build, change or repair
• How the space or site is used now and what you plan to change
• Whether you have drawings or photos to share during follow-up
• The status of any permit application and comments received
• Your target dates or other scheduling constraints

• Permit Corrections
• After-the-Fact Permits
• Unpermitted Work
• Commercial Alteration Engineering

Terms that may appear in plans, permit comments or contractor conversations about this work.

• after the fact
• as-built permit
• change of use
• code compliance
• conversion
• legalization
• permit correction