definition
strict definition
consecration
The moment when a place officially receives a religious status as a sacred site.
A place is officially consecrated when it receives official or ceremonial status as a sacred space for religious purposes. This applies especially to houses of worship and cemeteries.
The consecration ceremony is similar to an official dedication, but with a more specific purpose. In many religious traditions the act of consecration is necessary as a precondition to the place's function.
The event marks the conferral of sacred status rather than completion of construction alone. Its timing and ceremonial form depend on the religious tradition; a dedication without that sacred-status purpose is a separate event.
Related definitions
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elevator inspection
An official review of a structure's elevators by the governmental authority responsible for code compliance. -
first tenants move in
The first regular occupants move in and begin using a structure, potentially before all construction is complete. -
first unit rented
The first unit rental for a structure occurs, whether before, during, or after construction. -
first unit sold
The first unit of a structure is sold, whether before, during, or after construction. -
full inspection by private contractor
A professional on-site review of an entire structure or site by an independent private third party. -
full inspection by public authority
A professional on-site review of an entire structure or construction site by a government representative. -
observation area closes permanently
A room or deck for high observation is closed to the public, without prospect for re-opening. -
observation area opens
The first general public access to a designated high observation area, whether free or admission-paid. -
occupancy permit issued
A legal certificate is issued by the government allowing occupancy of a structure to begin. -
official dedication
A ceremony or declaration for the opening of a structure is held by its owner, developer, or manager. -
usage begins
Operation begins in at least one of the assigned uses of a structure or other object. -
vacancy begins
Total vacancy begins when no tenant or regular user remains in use of a place, excluding routine temporary closures. -
vacancy ends
A place resumes regular use or receives new occupants after a significant period of vacancy or disuse. -
vacating begins
The first tenant moves out in a continuous and deliberate process of vacating an occupied area or structure.