Approvals/Permits before purchasing property

[Jon H.]

I've noticed a few threads where people state that the jurisdiction approvals/permits should be obtained prior to purchasing a property.  I'm curious how this process plays out if you haven't bought a property yet.  Do you approach a jurisdiction with a report proposal or conceptual drawings in order to confirm they would approve?

I've been researching a new build project and when I tried to get detailed information from the County's electric company, I was told I had to be the Owner to request further info or get a meeting.  This was in regards to relocating a pole/overhead wiring.  This is a very specific case which is why I may have received this response. 

It'd be unfortunate to buy a plot of land or existing home and be told later on that your project won't be approved.  This will obviously vary by County but am curious to hear people's experience in this process.  What was the sequence of events for your due diligence before buying a property?