Which action should an architect guide a developer to take in order to ensure compliance with local regulations?

The correct action for an architect to guide a developer in ensuring compliance with local regulations is to obtain zoning approval. Zoning regulations are established by local governments to control land use and development within specific areas. These regulations outline what types of buildings can be constructed, their sizes, heights, densities, and the overall use of the property, which can include residential, commercial, or mixed-use designations.

Obtaining zoning approval is crucial because it ensures that the proposed development aligns with the community's planning objectives and legal standards. This process often includes submitting plans that demonstrate compliance with zoning laws, potentially undergoing public review, and addressing any concerns from the community or regulatory bodies. Successful zoning approval confirms that the project can proceed without facing legal challenges due to non-compliance with local regulations.

Other actions, while potentially beneficial to a project, do not directly address regulatory compliance in the same way. For instance, limiting the height of buildings might be a requirement of zoning laws, but it is only one aspect of the broader compliance needed. Reducing construction costs and hiring a project manager are both important for the project's execution but do not pertain to the necessary alignment with regulatory frameworks. Thus, guiding the developer to first secure zoning approval is the most effective way to ensure compliance