Requests For Code Modification Or Alternate Materials, Methods Of Design Or Methods Of Construction

Purpose:

The Building Official may approve modifications to the requirements of referenced codes and standards where special individual reasons exist that make strict compliance impractical. This authority allows demonstration of equivalent protection for the health, life safety, fire safety and structural requirements by meeting the intent and purpose of the code.

The Building Official may also permit the use of an alternate material, method of design or method of construction for innovative ideas or technological advances not specifically regulated in the code. This authority allows approvals of alternatives that are equivalent to code accepted methods for seven areas: suitability, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, safety and sanitation.

Procedure:

The project design professional will need to complete and submit the related department form with all supporting documentation. The designer may submit the request before, with, or after any application or approval for the related construction permit.

After submission, department staff will review the request for clarity and completeness of information and determine if any testing is required to substantiate the request. department staff will then notify the project design professional when the application is complete for processing or testing is required. After the application is considered complete, department staff will complete their review and make an initial determination whether to approve or deny the request.

After this review, the project design professional may request an informal conference with the staff reviewer to discuss the decision. If unsatisfied, the project design professional may request a formal hearing with the Building Official, whose decision is administratively final.