Get the hold in writing
Ask for the permit number, failed inspection result, document hold, or written request that is keeping the space from opening. “We need the CO” may be a summary of several unfinished items. An itemized record helps distinguish construction corrections, missing paperwork, and a separate business or property-use approval.
Explain the old use and your proposed business
Describe what previously operated in the space and what you intend to do there. Include construction changes, equipment, and how the space will be used. Orange County distinguishes a use permit for certain new tenants without alterations from building-permit situations involving construction or occupancy changes. Those are county descriptions, not a rule for every Orlando-area address; ask the issuing authority which route applies.
Separate final inspection from other opening paperwork
Track the construction permit, required trade inspections, occupancy documents, and business-related approvals separately. Passing one inspection does not establish that every opening requirement is complete. The City of Orlando’s permit guide includes a route for requesting copies of occupancy or completion certificates. Check the actual record rather than assuming a certificate is missing simply because you cannot find a copy.
Build a next-action list
For each outstanding item, identify who provides the document or completes the correction and who confirms acceptance. Keep current plans and inspection comments together. Share your target opening date, but make public opening commitments only after the responsible team has confirmed what remains.
Bring us the documents that reveal the blocker
Send the address, previous and proposed use, permit numbers, current drawings, inspector comments, and target opening date. The Permit Expert can coordinate information, design professionals, department follow-up, and final-document tracking under a written scope. Required construction is separately scoped with the appropriate contractors.
Official sources
Checked October 8, 2026. Confirm the current requirements with the department that issued your permit.
Need help applying this to your project?
Zoning & changes of use, or send your project details. We will discuss the scope before work starts.