A principal authority may include which of the following?

A principal authority typically refers to a governing body or entity that is authorized to enforce regulations, oversee compliance, or administer policies related to public health and safety, construction, or urban development. In many legal frameworks, such authorities are designated by law to fulfill specific regulatory responsibilities.

A board of health is often established to protect public health and ensure compliance with health regulations. These boards have the authority to make decisions and enforce laws regarding health-related matters, such as sanitation, waste management, and disease prevention. Their established role as regulatory bodies directly supports the characterization of a principal authority, which underscores why this choice is correct.

Other entities listed do not inherently hold the same regulatory authority or function. Non-profit organizations can play important roles in community services but do not have the statutory power typical of a principal authority. Private sector developers and real estate agents operate within the framework set by governing authorities, but they do not have the enforcement or regulatory powers that define a principal authority. Thus, the board of health is the only choice that aligns with the legal definition and operational scope of a principal authority.