What is one restriction regarding changes to building use?

The correct answer highlights an important aspect of building regulation focused on safety and compliance with legal standards. Changes to building use must not increase the hazard associated with that building without proper permitting because such changes could pose significant risks to occupants and the surrounding community. This restriction ensures that any modification to a building's intended use is evaluated for potential safety hazards and that appropriate measures are taken to mitigate those risks if necessary.

Permits are integral to managing safety during such transitions, as they enforce compliance with building codes, zoning laws, and other regulatory frameworks designed to protect public health and safety. This means that if a proposed change in building use could lead to increased risks—such as a shift from residential to a use requiring more intense occupancy or more hazardous activities—then approval from relevant authorities is necessary to ensure the structures can adequately support those changes.

The other choices do not reflect the valid constraints on building use. For example, while the assertion that an official can approve changes may seem plausible, it does not recognize the specific limitations regarding safety and potential hazards. The claim that a building can be used for any purpose disregards zoning laws and building codes that restrict usage based on safety and building design considerations. Lastly, the idea that no alterations to permits can take place contradicts