American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of building permits in planning?

1. Generate income for the city

2. Ensure safety and compliance with codes

3. Reduce development costs

4. Encourage aesthetic improvements

The correct answer is: Ensure safety and compliance with codes

The primary goal of building permits in planning is to ensure safety and compliance with codes. Building permits are essential tools used by municipalities to regulate the construction, alteration, and occupancy of buildings. By requiring permits, local governments can verify that construction complies with established building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards, which are designed to protect public health, safety, and welfare. The process of obtaining a building permit typically involves review by various departments, including planning, fire prevention, and health, to ensure that the proposed work will not pose risks to occupants or the surrounding community. This oversight helps prevent structural failures, hazards like fire or electrical issues, and non-compliance with land use regulations, ultimately preserving the integrity of the built environment and promoting community safety. While generating income for the city, reducing development costs, and encouraging aesthetic improvements may be considerations in the building permit process, they are secondary to the fundamental purpose of ensuring that all building activities adhere to regulations that prioritize safety and legal compliance.