Harold:
The answer would be it's your call as AHJ. IF the balcony is under 20 Sq ft, the exception solves the situation.
If it's over 20 sq ft, you may consider a variation application, with substantiation that is acceptable to you.
However, I would add that the substantiation has to be enough to CYA. The variation may be considered a precedent that could be referenced by others.
Gregs solution sure sounds like the best idea, but without 'seeing' the job, we may all be guessing.
