Who must builders submit plans to for checking and approval before a building permit is issued?

The correct answer is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The AHJ is typically a government agency or individual responsible for enforcing building codes, zoning laws, and regulations. They are the designated authority that reviews plans and ensures compliance with applicable codes and standards before a building permit is issued. This review process is crucial as it helps to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of the public by verifying that the proposed construction meets all legal requirements.

The role of the AHJ can include a variety of responsibilities such as evaluating the structural integrity of the design, ensuring adequate fire safety measures are included, and confirming that the building will not adversely affect the surrounding environment. Their approval is a mandatory step in the permitting process, which is essential before construction can begin.

Other options like the Building Code Official and the Architectural Review Board may have specific roles in the review process but do not generally hold the comprehensive authority that the AHJ does. The City Planner focuses on land use and urban planning aspects rather than directly on building permits. Therefore, while they may have input in certain situations, the AHJ is the primary entity for plan submission and approval related to building permits.