Ponding Water vs 1:12 Pitch?

Local code calls for 1:12 pitch on commercial roof, but NRCA says it is not considered "ponded water" unless it remains for 48-hours. Can I use the latter standard to defend my roof to a building inspector?

I would review Chapter 1500, Section 1508 -1511 as depicted in the International Building Code (IBC) book.  Typically, local building codes either mirror or adopt what is called for in the IBC.

I don't understand why your local Building Code would require 1" per 12" slope on a commercial project when the IBC specifies 1/4" per 12" design slope requirement on new construction but exempts rerooofing from the 1/4" per 12" design slope requirement.  That in itself (IBC) may be the ammunition you need for dealing at the local level.

Yeah I meant 1/4" in 12. Thanks for the ammo!