ICC Permit Technician Practice Exam

Which of these is the role of a building official in relation to deferred submittals?

1. To deny all requests

2. To grant prior approval

3. To reject any modifications

4. To oversee public hearings

The correct answer is: To grant prior approval

The role of a building official in relation to deferred submittals primarily involves granting prior approval. Deferred submittals refer to certain aspects of a construction project that can be submitted for review and approval at a later date, rather than at the initial plan submission stage. This allows for flexibility in project design and construction scheduling while still ensuring compliance with building codes. By granting prior approval, the building official ensures that the deferred components still align with the overall design and intended use of the building and that they meet all applicable building codes and standards. This role is crucial in maintaining safety and regulatory compliance while accommodating the complexities of larger or more intricate projects. In contrast, denying all requests or rejecting any modifications would limit the project's potential and flexibility, which is not the intent of allowing deferred submittals. Likewise, overseeing public hearings is typically outside the scope of responsibilities related to deferred submittals and is more aligned with community involvement and zoning issues rather than specific building code matters. Thus, the building official's function in granting prior approval is vital for effective project management and compliance.