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 Orlando
 Code of Ordinances
 Chapter 24. FIRE PREVENTION CODE

  § 24.05. Equivalencies, Alternatives and Modifications.  

Latest version.

  • (a)

    1.4.1. Equivalencies. Nothing in this Code is intended to prevent the use of systems, methods, or devices of equivalent or superior quality, strength, fire resistance, effectiveness, durability, and safety to those prescribed by this Code, provided technical documentation is submitted to the AHJ to demonstrate equivalency and the system, method, or device is approved for the intended purpose.

    (b)

    1.4.2. Alternatives. The specific requirements of this Code shall be permitted to be modified by the authority having jurisdiction to allow alternative arrangements that will secure as nearly equivalent fire safety as practical, but in no case shall the modification afford less fire safety than, in the judgment of the authority having jurisdiction, that which would be provided by compliance with the corresponding provisions contained in this Code.

    (c)

    1.4.3. Modifications. The AHJ is authorized to modify any of the provisions of this Code upon application in writing by the owner, a lessee, or a duly authorized representative where there are practical difficulties in the way of carrying out the provisions of the Code, provided that the intent of the Code shall be complied with, public safety secured, and substantial justice done.

    (d)

    1.4.4. Buildings with alternative fire protection features approved by the authority having jurisdiction shall be considered as conforming with this Code.

    (e)

    1.4.5. Each application for an alternative fire protection feature shall be filed with the AHJ and shall be accompanied by such evidence, letters, statements, results of tests, or other supporting information as required to justify the request. The AHJ shall keep a record of actions on such applications, and a signed copy of the AHJ's decision shall be provided for the applicant.

    (f)

    1.4.6. Approval. The AHJ shall approve such alternative construction systems, materials, or other methods of design when it is substantiated that the standards of this Code are at least equaled. If, in the opinion of the AHJ, the standards shall not be equaled by the alternative requested, approval for permanent work shall be refused. Consideration shall be given to test or prototype installations.

    (g)

    1.4.7. Tests.

    (1)

    1.4.7.1. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the requirements of this Code or evidence that any material or method of construction does not conform to the requirements of this Code, or to substantiate claims for alternative construction systems, materials, or methods of construction, the AHJ shall be permitted to require tests for proof of compliance to be made by an approved agency at the expense of the owner or his/her agent.

    (2)

    1.4.7.2. Test methods shall be as specified by this Code for the material in question. If there are not appropriate test methods specified in this Code, the AHJ is authorized to accept an applicable test procedure from another recognized source.

    (3)

    1.4.7.3. Copies of the results of all such tests shall be retained in accordance with Section 1.11.

(Ord. No. 2017-23, § 2, 5-15-2017, Doc. #1705151205)