Which of the following usually establishes the exact manner in which plans must be submitted for review?

• A. Authority having jurisdiction
• B. Fire code
• C. Building code
• D. Local zoning ordinance

Answer: (A)

The exact way plans must be submitted for review is determined by the authority having jurisdiction. This is the local official or agency charged with enforcing codes and issuing permits, such as the fire marshal or building official. They set the submittal requirements you must follow—what documents to include, how many plan sets, whether submissions are electronic or paper, required stamps or signatures, labeling, and deadlines. While the fire code, building code, and local zoning establish safety and land-use rules, they don’t typically prescribe the administrative details of how plans are submitted. Those procedural specifics come from the AHJ’s adopted plan-review procedures and checklists, which is why they establish the exact submission format and process.