50-60-206. Variances to state building code. (1) The department has the power, on satisfactory proof after a public hearing, to:

(a) vary or modify, in whole or part, the application of any provision or requirement of the state building code if strict compliance would cause any undue hardship; but no variance or modification shall affect adversely provisions for health, safety, and security, and equally safe and proper alternatives may be prescribed therefor;

(b) reverse, modify, or annul, in whole or part, any ruling, direction, determination, or order of any state agency affecting or relating to the construction of any building, the construction of which is pursuant or purports to be pursuant to the provisions of the state building code;

(c) review within 30 days after disapproval any application for permission for the construction of a building pursuant to the provisions of the state building code or plans or specifications submitted in connection therewith;

(d) reverse, modify, or annul the disapproval in whole or part;

(e) within 30 days make a determination that the application or plans or specifications are in compliance with the provisions of the state building code. If this determination is made, the officer charged with the duty shall issue any permit, license, certificate, authorization, or other document required for the construction.

(2) An application for a variance, modification, reversal, annulment, or review may be made by any person aggrieved pursuant to the Montana Administrative Procedure Act.

(3) An application for a variance, modification, reversal, annulment, or review shall stay all proceedings in furtherance of the action appealed from unless there is a showing by the state agency that a stay would involve imminent peril to life or property.

(4) The department, in hearings conducted under this section, shall not be bound by common-law or statutory rules of evidence.