AHJs

AHJs, or authorities having jurisdiction, are the entities empowered to enforce building safety, fire protection, and related codes within a defined area. In practice, an AHJ may be a municipal or county building department, a fire marshal’s office, a state code enforcement agency, or, for certain properties, a federal agency. Jurisdictions determine which codes apply and how they are adopted, amended, and enforced; multiple AHJs can operate within a region, each with authority over different aspects of code compliance.

Common duties of an AHJ include interpreting applicable codes, reviewing construction plans for compliance, issuing permits, and conducting on-site inspections during various construction stages. They may issue stop-work orders, require corrective actions, and ultimately determine whether a project complies before issuing a certificate of occupancy or compliance. AHJs may also grant variances or special approvals under established procedures and maintain records of decisions and inspections. In many areas, an appeal process exists to challenge a code interpretation or a denial decision, typically through a board of appeals or a higher authority within the jurisdiction.

AHJs often rely on model codes such as the International Building Code (IBC), International Fire Code (IFC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, the International Residential Code (IRC), and the National Electrical Code (NEC), applying local amendments as needed. While some jurisdictions use third-party plan review or inspection services, the AHJ retains final authority over permits, approvals, and enforcement. The AHJ’s role is central to ensuring safety, compliance, and consistent enforcement across buildings and facilities.