
Once your architectural plans and documents are approved, the next critical step is obtaining your Certificate of Occupancy (CO) from your local city authority. This certificate verifies that your Assisted Living Facility complies with all building codes, safety regulations, and zoning requirements, and that it is safe for residents and staff to occupy.

After submitting your CO application, the City schedules an on-site inspection.
Inspectors verify that your facility meets all building, fire, and life-safety codes in compliance with the Minnesota State Building Code and Fire Code.

Upon approval of the CO and application, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) issues a Provisional License (per MN Statute 144G.16).
This allows you to admit your first resident and begin operations for up to 1 year.

Once the facility is operational with at least one resident, MDH conducts an initial survey.
Upon demonstrating substantial compliance, your Provisional status is converted to a Full Facility License.
This step ensures that your facility is not only built to code but also approved for safe occupancy and ongoing compliance.








Copyright © 2026 R2 Studios Architecture