What authority does a principal authority have under section 4.1(1)?

The correct answer highlights the principal authority's power to enter into agreements with registered code agencies, which is crucial for facilitating the administration and enforcement of the building code. This authority allows the principal authority to delegate certain responsibilities to these agencies, enhancing efficiency and ensuring compliance with safety and construction standards.

The ability to form agreements is significant because it allows for collaboration and sharing of resources, which can lead to improved oversight and validation of building practices within the jurisdiction. The agreements can clarify roles, responsibilities, and expectations between the principal authority and the code agencies, thereby streamlining processes related to building permits and inspections.

Other choices do not accurately reflect the scope of the principal authority's powers. The principal authority does not have the mandate to enforce building code legislation independently, as enforcement typically involves a comprehensive system including various levels of governance. They also cannot appoint additional inspectors without proper validation, as such appointments must adhere to specific regulatory frameworks. Lastly, defining building codes for specific municipalities is generally outside the purview of a principal authority, as building codes are typically developed at a broader level to ensure consistency across regions. This means that choices regarding the code structure are often determined by provincial or national standards, rather than on an individual municipal level.