American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which document outlines a planner's continuing responsibility to the public?

1. AICP Code of Ethics

2. The Constitution

3. The Urban Planning Act

4. The National Planning Framework

The correct answer is: AICP Code of Ethics

The AICP Code of Ethics is the correct answer because it establishes the professional standards and responsibilities that planners must uphold in their practice. This document specifically emphasizes the planner's ethical obligations to protect the public interest, promote equitable and just planning, and encourage transparency in decision-making processes. By adhering to these ethical guidelines, planners reaffirm their commitment to serving the community and maintaining public trust. The Code serves as a framework for guiding planners in their professional conduct, ensuring that their actions align with the broader goals of community welfare and sustainable development. In contrast, while The Constitution might provide general principles regarding rights and governance, it does not offer specific guidance on the ethical responsibilities of planners. The Urban Planning Act and the National Planning Framework typically focus on statutory frameworks and policy guidelines rather than on the ethical dimensions of professional practice. Thus, those documents do not encapsulate the ongoing responsibilities that planners have toward the public in the same comprehensive manner that the AICP Code of Ethics does.