R.I. Gen. Laws § 32-7-6
The provisions of this chapter are not intended to prevent the use of any material, method of construction, or installation procedure not specially prescribed by this code; provided that any such alternative is of equal or greater quality and is verified by the authority having jurisdiction. The authority having jurisdiction shall require that sufficient evidence be submitted to substantiate any claims made regarding the safety of alternatives. Evidence shall also be submitted to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the authority having jurisdiction, that the alternative material, method of construction, or installation procedure meets or exceeds the level of health and safety protection required by the standards of this code.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 32-7-6