Which of the following entities does the building official not have authority over?

The correct answer highlights that the building official does indeed possess authority over architects, building contractors, and local government planning departments. In the context of building inspections and regulation, the building official's role is to enforce codes, ensure compliance with regulations, and oversee the overall safety and integrity of construction projects.

Building officials generally have jurisdiction over architects because they are accountable for ensuring designs meet safety and building codes. Similarly, they have authority over building contractors as they must ensure that the work performed adheres to those established codes and regulations, thus protecting public safety. Local government planning departments usually interact closely with building officials to coordinate development projects and verify that plans satisfy zoning and regulatory requirements, placing them within the official’s purview.

Thus, indicating "None of the above" is appropriate since it confirms that building officials do indeed have authority over all the mentioned entities. This understanding is crucial for compliance within the construction and design process, as all parties must align with established codes to maintain safety and legality in building practices.