STEP-BY-STEP EXPLANATION OF THE LICENSING PROCESS
1. Certificate of Occupancy (CRA-5)
A Certificate of Occupancy or Home Occupation Permit is required to show that your business is operating in a building that meets correct building and zoning code requirements for its intended use.
However, you may not need one if you are leasing space in a building that already holds a Certificate of Occupancy for your intended business use. For instance, a law firm can operate under the umbrella of an office building’s Certificate of Occupancy as long as the firm operates in a manner that conforms to office use.
Certain businesses, mostly Basic Business License applicants, need to obtain a separate certificate if the property owner's Certificate of Occupancy does not cover their business. It is important, therefore, to ask the owner, property manager, or agent about the Certificate of Occupancy when entering into a lease agreement.
To file for a Certificate of Occupancy for your business, you must either have a commercially zoned business location or operate your business from your home. Applications are available from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs or online at www.dcra.dc.gov under the heading "Permits." Once completed, you will need to submit the application in person to the Permit Service Center, 941 North Capitol Street, NE, Suite 2300, Washington, DC 20002, (202) 442-4400.
For Commercial Properties:
Most commercially zoned properties will already have a Certificate of Occupancy. You should be able to get a copy of the certificate from the building owner or management company. If there is no Certificate of Occupancy, you will need to apply for one.
For Home-Based Properties:
If you own your home, you will be able to authorize the use of your home for the business on the application form for the Home Occupation Permit (HOP). You may be eligible for the new Expedited Home Occupancy Permit (E-HOP), which shortens the process. If you are renting or leasing your residence and want to use it as your business location, you will need to obtain the permission of your landlord to operate your business out of your home. You must include this authorization with the application for the Certificate of Occupancy. 
