Commercial Certificate of Occupancy

Certificates of Occupancy are required prior to the opening of a new business or if an existing business has a change in ownership, a name change, a change in use, or a change in location (including the expansion into an adjacent suite). The Certificate of Occupancy application and inspections aids in ensuring that city codes, including but not limited to, zoning use regulations, adequate parking, noise, building and fire codes, that State Sales and Use taxes are collected, and other applicable federal and state licenses and regulations are secured and followed. The application must be completed and signed by the business owner or manager.

Required Documents

  1. A completed Commercial Certificate of Occupancy application, including all applicable fees. (See Building Related Fees for complete details.)
  2. A Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit issued by the Texas Comptroller's office naming the City of Castle Hills if the collection of sales tax is required for your business. (View the Texas Comptroller website for more information.)
  3. A copy of the lease agreement.
  4. A food license application (if food items are sold).

Upon receipt of the completed application, and payment, city staff will schedule the building inspector to conduct an inspection of the property. If the inspection reveals no deficiencies or violations, the fire inspector will contact you to schedule the fire inspection (often the same day). If a food license is needed, the Health Inspector will conduct the final inspection.  Upon fire department approval and the health inspection if needed, the Certificate of Occupancy will be available at the Permit Office.

Common Reasons For Not Passing Inspections

  • Emergency lighting packs are not functioning
  • Exit signs are missing or not functioning
  • Fire extinguisher is missing, has expired tag, or has no tag

Trade permits must be obtained if the building will be remodeled, have plumbing, heating/air conditioning repairs, or electrical repairs or improvements. The Certificate of Occupancy is issued when all work is inspected and completed.