Email Scam (Phishing Attempt)

The FBI has warned that scammers are pretending to be city officials to request payments for planning and zoning permits. We're aware of phishing attempts following this scam in Madison.

Zoning Change of Use Certificate of Occupancy

A Zoning Certificate of Occupancy (CO) must be issued when a new non-residential tenant or business wants to:

  • occupy a previously occupied space in a building AND
  • the new business will be a different zoning use from the most recent previously approved zoning use for the space AND
  • there are no changes to the space that require building code review AND
  • there will be no changes to the site, such as changes to auto parking, bike parking, drives, or landscaping

If you are unsure whether your occupancy requires a Zoning CO, please contact Zoning staff at zoning@cityofmadison.com or 608-266-4511 Ext. 3 or make an appointment to speak with staff in-person at our Zoning Counter. Many new businesses do not need to complete this process.

If your project requires building code review and there is a change of tenant, the CO is included in the building permit. 

How To Get a Zoning Change of Use CO

Submit the Zoning Certificate of Occupancy Application Form to zoning@cityofmadison.com, at a Zoning Counter appointment, or through the mail.  You can pay the $75 fee online once Zoning Staff set up the permit in our system.  You can also pay at your appointment or through the mail. Make your check out to the City of Madison Treasurer. 

  • City of Madison Building Inspection

    P.O. Box 2984
    Madison, WI 53701

Once approved by Zoning Staff, you will receive a permit. To complete the process and obtain your Zoning Certificate of Occupancy, Building Inspection and Fire Inspection need to sign off on the permit.

You will need to call the following numbers. Let them know this is for a Zoning Change of Use only.

  • Fire Inspection: 608-266-4484 
  • Building Inspection: The phone number of your Building Inspector as listed on your permit or call 608-266-4551 Ext. 1 

The inspectors may have to visit the site. Once they have both signed off, call 608-266-4551 and ask for your Zoning Certificate of Occupancy to be issued.

Was this page helpful to you? * required