Failure to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy before occupying a building is a violation of Texas Local Government Code 233.064 and may result in penalties.
A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is a document issued by the county once a building satisfies the requirements of applicable codes and laws; it means that the building has been inspected and is safe to inhabit.
A rental unit without a certificate of occupancy is illegal. Without a certificate, the landlord cannot collect rent. So you need to lawyer up and possibly withhold rent for both issues.
For Certificate of Occupancy information, please contact Development Services at (210) 207-1111. The Development and Business Services Department is located at 1901 S. Alamo San Antonio, Texas 78204. They are available Monday through Friday from am-pm.
Certificate of Occupancy Fees ​Certificate of Occupancy Fees​ ​Certificate of Occupancy - Partial ​$104 ​Certificate of Occupancy - Duplicate ​$30 ​Certificate of Occupancy - General Permit ​$375 ​Certificate of Occupancy - Residential Early Move-in Penalty ​$5007 more rows
A Certificate of Occupancy is required for all businesses in the City of San Antonio.
Certificate of Occupancy Fees ​Certificate of Occupancy Fees​ ​Certificate of Occupancy - Partial ​$104 ​Certificate of Occupancy - Duplicate ​$30 ​Certificate of Occupancy - General Permit ​$375 ​Certificate of Occupancy - Residential Early Move-in Penalty ​$5007 more rows
The inspector will look for such items as: paint and trim; fire protection requirements; stairs and handrails; roofs; gutters; accessory buildings; interior mechanical systems such as heat, electric and plumbing; interior and exterior structural soundness; and space requirements.
Permits can be applied for online or in person at Development Services located at 1901 South Alamo, San Antonio, Texas. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday am to pm. You may contact Development Services by calling (210) 207-1111.
Most buildings in Texas need a permit; exceptions include sheds <200 sqft, decks <30 inches, and fences <7 feet. Permit is required for plumbing, electrical work, residential additions, pools, and concrete pouring. Non-permit projects can include landscaping and temporary structures, but must comply with zoning laws.