• September 16, 2025
• By JEP Team

An Occupation Certificate (OC) is the final approval required before you can move into and use your newly built or altered development. It is a legal requirement in NSW that confirms the building is safe, compliant, and ready for use. The OC also verifies that the construction has been completed in accordance with your approved Construction Certificate (CC) plans and the conditions of your Development Approval (DA).

The Occupation Certificate Process begins once you receive your Construction Certificate. Before any building works commence, you must appoint a Principal Certifier. This can be a Registered Private Certifier or a Certifier from your local Council, often the same person who issued your CC. The Principal Certifier is responsible for: 

• Inspecting key stages of construction (e.g. foundations, framing, waterproofing etc)
• Ensuring all Development Approval and Construction Certificate conditions have been met
• Confirming that all required safety measures (such as fire safety systems) are installed and operational
• Verifying compliance certificates from plumbers, engineers, electricians, and other specialists
• Issuing the Occupation Certificate after construction if all requirements are met
• Lodging the Occupation Certificate with the local council via the NSW Planning Portal

To support the Occupation Certificate process, it is beneficial to engage an industrial planner who can manage contractors, address potential compliance issues, and compile all necessary reports and documentation. Their expertise helps streamline Occupation Certificate approval and is particularly valuable for industrial projects, where operational timelines and regulatory compliance are critical.

It is essential to follow the Construction Certificate plans carefully during works, as any deviations, errors, or redesigns must be reassessed and approved by the Principal Certifier before an Occupation Certificate can be issued. Cutting corners can lead to delays, additional approvals, or costly re-work, making compliance throughout the construction phase critical to keeping your project within budget and on schedule.

In certain cases, you can apply for an Interim Occupation Certificate. This allows you to occupy part of the building before the entire development is complete. For industrial projects, an Interim Occupation Certificate provides flexibility by enabling partial operations while construction or final fit-outs are still underway and is usually valid until the final Occupation Certificate is issued. The same standards and compliance inspections still apply to the part of the building you wish to occupy. 

Once you receive your occupation certificate, you’re officially allowed to move in and begin operations. It confirms your development complies with all safety, design, and regulatory requirements and marks the final step in the approval process.

If you need support navigating the Occupation Certificate process, our team of experienced environmental and industrial planners are here to help. Reach us at (02) 8056 1849 or email us at admin@jacksonenvironment.com.au. More info at https://www.jacksonenvironment.com.au.