In addition to the provisions of § 105 of the Structural Specialty Code and similar provision of other specialty codes, the Building Official may approve a material or a method of construction not specifically prescribed by these codes, provided he or she finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and that the material, method or work offered is suitable for the purpose intended or at least the equivalent of that prescribed in these codes in suitability, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, safety and sanitation and that the Administrator of the Building Codes Agency has not issued a report disapproving the material or method for the purpose. The Building Official may refer the proposed design to the County Board of Appeals as provided in § 204(a) of the Structural Specialty Code, and any person affected by a ruling of the Building Official may appeal the ruling to the Board of Appeals within 30 days of the date of the ruling. The provisions of this section shall not be interpreted to preclude a person from requesting a ruling from the Administrator of the Building Codes Agency prior to submitting an application to the city for a permit or after withdrawing a previously submitted application.
(Ord. 428, passed 1-14-1991)