Get a Certificate of use (CU)

We have a great tool that can help you confirm allowable uses at the proposed space. If you have any questions or want to learn more about zoning regulations for the site, please click here to visit our Zoning Platform.

You will need several documents and relevant information to apply for a CU. Applications without necessary documents / information may be delayed or rejected. Click here to download and review the CU checklist for required documents.

General required information includes, but is not limited to:

• Name of business as it’s recorded with The Florida Division of Corporations, name of owner if not incorporated, or name of person authorized to file the application.
• Exact address of business including suite numbers if applicable and size of the space the business will occupy. A numbered seating chart will be required for restaurants.
• If you are adding new areas (square footage) or occupying a newly constructed or renovated space, a Building Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) or a Building Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is required. If you intend to occupy space with a different prior use you may need to obtain an updated Building Certificate of Occupancy to reflect the new intended occupancy type, i.e. medical office to restaurant.
• Fire Occupancy Load Certificate dated no less than six months from date of application is required for restaurants.
• A copy of the previous BTR for the proposed location is also required. A link to obtain copies of prior BTRs is provided below.
• Floor plan and numbered seating chart for restaurants.
• Letter of Interest. This letter must contain all relevant information for the intended operation such as type of business to be conducted, hours of operation, number of seats, sale of alcoholic beverages, etc. Provide as much detail as possible regarding the intended business operation.

The application for CU cannot move forward without required documents.

Click Here for Public Records and Prior BTR Requests

Request CO, Fire Occupancy Certificate Occupancy Load, or Building Plans

To apply for the Certificate of Use please access the Civic Access portal.

1. Click here to apply on Civic Access.
2. Enter "Certificate of Use" in the search bar.
3. Select “Certificate of Use” to commence the application process. Please have all required information and documents (pdf format) ready to upload to the application.

Click to access information and links for the Civic Access Portal.

After you submit a complete application, the City will evaluate and provide a correction report if additional information or correction is required. Your quick response will ensure timely review of the application. If the application is idle for 90 days it will be deemed abandoned, and a new application will be required. If the application is complete and consistent with the Land Development Regulations, the application will be approved, and an email notice will be sent to the contact(s) of record.

Once the CU is approved by Planning, the Fire Department will conduct an on-site inspection. Inspections can be scheduled via Civic Access.

Except for CUs for Under Utilized Parking and Medical Cannabis Dispensaries, there is no need for an annual renewal of the Certificate of Use. CUs are issued for the location not individuals or business interest. Business operations that want to amend the CU in anyway, including location, hours of operations, expansion, or any change to approved uses, etc., must obtain a new Certificate of Use.

Approval of a Certificate of Use does not constitute approval to commence operating. A City of Miami Beach Business Tax Receipt as well as approvals from Miami Dade County are required to start operating. Please click here for BTR step by step.