Who is in charge of a local building department?

The building official is responsible for overseeing the local building department. This role typically includes enforcing building codes and regulations, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and managing the permit and inspection process. The building official serves as the key authority figure within the department, handling the administration of construction-related activities at the local level.

This position is crucial for maintaining the integrity of building projects and protecting public safety. The building official not only ensures that construction meets local codes but also interprets regulations and provides guidance to contractors and the public on building requirements.

While other roles such as the local city mayor, chief of operations, or a director of construction may have influence or certain responsibilities within their scope of work, they typically do not handle the day-to-day regulatory oversight and operations of the building department like the building official does.