According to the Building Code Act, who is included in the role of the "chief building official"?

The designation of "chief building official" under the Building Code Act encompasses individuals who have responsibilities related to inspections and other duties equivalent to those of the chief building official. This includes a broader range of personnel, not limited to those holding the title of head inspector but rather including individuals who possess the requisite authority and qualifications to perform inspections and oversee compliance with building regulations.

The emphasis is on the functional role rather than just the title, meaning that individuals with equivalent duties can step in to fulfill the responsibilities of the chief building official, ensuring that the municipality maintains compliance with building codes and regulations. This allows for flexibility within municipal structures, allowing trained officials who understand the regulations thoroughly to carry out necessary inspections and enforce compliance.

Other options may point to related functions but do not encapsulate the full scope of who can serve in this vital role. Municipal authorities responsible for planning primarily address land use and development approvals rather than the direct oversight of building standards enforcement, while external contractors hired by the municipality may assist with tasks but do not typically hold the official capacity of chief building official.