Which term identifies the entity with enforcement authority and the power to approve or require equipment in codes and standards?

• A. Building Official
• B. Inspector
• C. Department
• D. Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

Answer: (D)

The concept here is who has the legal power to enforce codes and decide what equipment is acceptable. The Authority Having Jurisdiction is the official or agency designated by law to administer and enforce codes, interpret requirements, issue permits, and approve or require equipment and installations. In practice, the AHJ might be a city or county fire marshal or building department, or another designated authority, and it can authorize alternatives or equivalencies when the code allows. A Building Official is typically the person within the AHJ who issues permits and oversees code enforcement, an Inspector is the person who performs field checks under the AHJ’s authority, and a Department refers to the agency housing that authority. But the term that identifies the entity with the enforcement power and the authority to approve or require equipment is the Authority Having Jurisdiction.