What must a property owner apply for before starting construction to ensure compliance with building codes?

A building permit is the required authorization a property owner must obtain before starting construction. This permit ensures that the proposed construction complies with local building codes, zoning laws, and safety regulations. It serves to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public by confirming that the building will be constructed according to established standards.

Obtaining a building permit is typically a legal requirement, meaning that construction cannot commence until this permit is granted. The process often involves submitting detailed plans and specifications of the construction project to the local building authority, which will review them for compliance with applicable codes.

While other options like a construction permit, development approval, and site plan review may be relevant in different contexts, it's the building permit that specifically addresses the requirement for compliance with building codes. Development approval might cover broader aspects of land use and community planning, while site plan reviews usually pertain to the layout of the proposed development rather than the specifics of construction compliance. Thus, the building permit is essential for ensuring that a project meets all necessary standards before construction begins.