
CHAPTER 3
The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
Although it may sound like something from a legal drama, the Authority Having Jurisdiction
(AHJ) is a very important element in the implementation of codes,standards, and
recommended practices. Codes and standards produced in the United States are generally
considered voluntary, peer-reviewed consensus documents, with some exceptions. Their
implementation is not required, unless mandated by legislative or industry voluntary
agreement. The term authority is defined as ‘‘A person or group having the right and power to
command, decide, rule, or judge; A person with a high degree of knowledge or skill in ...