Certificate for public use
If people want to start using premises before a code compliance certificate is issued, they can apply for a certificate for public use. This certificate enables members of the public to use the premises until a code compliance certificate is granted.
Certificates for public use can only be used where a consent has been granted for the building work but no code compliance certificate has been issued yet.
Anyone who owns, occupies or controls premises intended for public use may apply for a certificate for public use.
What types of buildings require a certificate?
A certificate is required for all buildings used by the public, whether without charge, such as a shopping centre or store, or where the public enter on payment of a fee, such as a sports stadium, swimming pool or zoo. A certificate can apply to all or part of a building.
How to apply
To apply, please download, complete and return the 
certificate for public use application form (PDF 128kb).
When will a certificate be issued?
We will issue a certificate only if we are satisfied that members of the public can use the premises safely. This is likely to involve an inspection.
Certificates for public use do not relieve the owner of a building from the obligation to apply for a code compliance certificate after all the building work has been carried out.
When will a certificate not be issued?
A certificate for public use cannot be issued:
- If part or all of the building required to be occupied is not deemed safe to use
- For any work completed before 1 July 1992
- If work was carried out without first obtaining a building consent (that is, unauthorised work)
- In the case of unauthorised work carried out between 1 July 1992 and 31 March 2005, a certificate of acceptance only may be applied for
- In the case of unauthorised work carried out after 31 March 2005, a notice to fix must be issued.
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