Under what circumstance would the chief building official refuse to issue a permit?

The chief building official would refuse to issue a permit if the plans review certificate lacks necessary information. This is because all plans submitted for review must meet specific requirements and provide sufficient detail to ensure they comply with applicable building codes and regulations. Without the necessary information, it is impossible for the building official to assess and verify that the proposed construction will be safe and in compliance with standards. This lack of information can lead to potential safety issues and non-compliance with zoning laws or building codes.

In contrast, personal references are generally not a requirement for permit issuance. While application fees must be paid, the fee structure typically is established by legislation and should not be deemed "too high" to justify refusal. Lastly, constructing a building in a residential zone is not, by itself, a valid reason to deny a permit; as long as the construction adheres to zoning laws and regulations, issuance would likely proceed.