The director of fire protection may modify any of the provisions of this code upon application in writing where there are practical difficulties in the way of carrying out the strict letter of the code, provided that the spirit of the code shall be complied with, public safety secured. The particulars of such modification may be allowed and the decision of the director of fire protection shall be entered upon the records of the department and a signed copy shall be furnished the applicant.

The director may require tests as proof of compliance with the intent of this code. Such tests shall be made by an approved agency at the expense of the person requesting approval of the alternate material or method of construction.

If technical expertise is unavailable within the department because of new technology, process, products, facilities, materials and uses attending the design of the proposed alternate, the director may require the person in possession or control to provide, without charge to the department, a technical opinion and report. The opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire-safety speciality organization acceptable to the director and the owner, and shall analyze the fire-safety properties of the design, operation or use of the proposed alternate, and prescribe the necessary recommended changes.