Who has the authority to stop work at a construction site?

The authority to stop work at a construction site typically resides with the building official. This individual is responsible for ensuring compliance with building codes, regulations, and standards. When a significant violation occurs, or if conditions on site create safety concerns, the building official has the legal right to halt construction activities to protect the health and safety of workers and the general public, as well as to ensure that the project adheres to the required specifications.

While registered design professionals and special inspectors play important roles in the construction process, their authority does not extend to stopping work unless specifically authorized under certain conditions or local regulations. The special inspector's supervisor may have some oversight responsibilities, but ultimate authority for stopping work lies with the building official, who acts based on regulatory oversight and enforcement responsibilities.