Code of Ethics Flashcards
7 cards from real AICP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Code of Ethics flashcards as text
Under the AICP Code, which statement best describes the relationship between a planner's obligations to their employer and to the public?
Answer: Obligations to the public supersede obligations to the employer when they conflict
The AICP Code establishes a clear hierarchy: public interest comes first, then obligations to employers and clients.
An AICP member who serves as a planning commissioner is approached by a developer for paid consulting on a project not before the commission. The planner should:
Answer: Decline or fully disclose and recuse from any commission matters involving that developer
Paid consulting relationships with developers create conflicts of interest that require disclosure and recusal from related commission matters.
The AICP Code defines 'special responsibility' to which of the following in the context of planning advocacy?
Answer: The needs of the disadvantaged who may have limited access to the planning process
The Code recognizes that planners have a special responsibility to advocate for those with limited power and access to the planning process.
When a planner disagrees with a policy direction taken by their agency, the AICP Code suggests the planner should:
Answer: Express disagreement through legitimate professional and political channels
The Code supports expressing professional disagreement through legitimate channels while continuing to carry out lawful duties.
Which of the following scenarios best illustrates a planner violating the AICP obligation to 'maintain the respect owed to others'?
Answer: Publicly demeaning community members who oppose a planning project at a hearing
The obligation to maintain respect requires treating all persons—including opponents—with dignity in professional interactions.
The AICP Code requires that planners 'provide full, clear, and accurate information.' This obligation is violated when a planner:
Answer: Selectively presents data to support a predetermined conclusion in a public report
Selectively presenting data to reach a predetermined conclusion violates the obligation for full, clear, and accurate information.
A planner is asked to sign off on a colleague's work that the planner has not personally reviewed. Under the AICP Code, the planner should:
Answer: Refuse to certify work they have not independently reviewed
Planners may only certify work they have personally reviewed; signing off on unreviewed work misrepresents their professional judgment.