What is the primary duty of a building official?

The primary duty of a building official is to issue building permits. This role is crucial as it ensures that construction projects comply with local codes and zoning laws. By issuing permits, building officials help to regulate and manage the construction process, ensuring that all developments are safe, structurally sound, and in alignment with community standards.

Building permits serve as a formal approval from the governing authority, allowing the applicant to begin construction, while confirming that plans meet the necessary regulations and standards. Without this key function, there would be no systematic way to ensure that buildings are constructed safely and legally, which is a primary concern for municipal governments and the communities they serve.

While responsibilities such as inspecting construction sites, enforcing safety regulations, and approving construction plans are related and important aspects of the building official's role, the act of issuing permits stands as the foundational duty, facilitating the regulatory framework that governs property development.