(a) Approved Materials and Equipment. All materials, equipment and devices approved by the Code Official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
(b) Modifications. Where there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out provisions of this Code, the Code Official shall have the right to vary or modify such provisions upon application of the owner or the owner's representative, provided that the spirit and intent of the law is observed and that the public health, safety and welfare is assured.
(c) Records. The application for modification and the final decision of the Code Official shall be in writing and shall be officially recorded in the permanent records of the department.
(d) Material and Equipment Reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements have been reconditioned, tested and placed in good and proper working condition and approved.
(e) Alternative Materials and Equipment. The provisions of this Code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this Code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material or method of construction shall be approved when the Code Official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this Code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this Code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.
(f) Research and Investigations. Sufficient technical data shall be submitted to substantiate the proposed installation of any material or assembly. If it is determined that the evidence submitted is satisfactory proof of performance for the proposed installation, the Code Official shall approve such alternative subject to the requirements of this Code. The cost of all tests, reports and investigations required under these provisions shall be paid by the applicant.
(Ord. 00-03. Passed 5-15-00.)