When there is that much money on the table, some will often spill off and set things right. But generally what happens when "you" disagree with the inspector is that "you" end up walking away mumbling to yourself and eventually rework the job to suit the AHJ.

First off, the issue the Chicagoland poster has is not an "interpretation" issue. The written codes are clear there, it's just that they are different than the National code and the diyer didn't bother to check.

Yes, I've had "convention" issues (often with the configuration of things at rough-in) that aren't even addressed by the code. The answer is, little stuff you just fix to the inspectors liking. Difference over what the intpretations you can fight up the AHJ chain. I've seen it done. Again you have to gauge what the effort is versus the gains for bucking the system. It's only usually an issue if there is substantial money involved or their telling you that some feature you wish to have can't be done.

PEs are allowed to inspect and seal off large projects in most jurisdictions.
You did not think that an inspection department handles large industrial installations did you?

There are actually painfully few arguments you will win with an AHJ for residential work.
It is when the inspectors see things not common in residential work they can mess up.

Install a motor only circuit for large machinery in a house and watch them try to figure it out.

For the most part you will not win, and even if I could win it is rarely worth the effort.
If the same inspector keeps causing me problems I will write a letter to his boss demanding a written opinion.

It can be carried up the chain of command from that point.

I have only done it a couple times in about 30 years since most of the issues have been over specification (may cost money but do not create a safety issue).

If the demand creates a safety issue I fight back.
Inspectors have immunity from mistakes.
My PE stamp is on the line.

In every jurisdiction that I am licensed in, there is a written prodcedure for dealing with Code "interpretation".
Usually you can appeal to the chief electrical inspector, then the chief building inspector, and then even move up to the state board level if necessary.
There are some bastards out there but if you carefully prove your point and back it up with solid facts and code articles, you should be able to get what you want.
If there are issues, the best thing to do is request a courtesy inspection, walk the inspector through the project and find out what his pet peeves are before you yank any wire.

and keep your attitude in check. if you act a butt to teh AHJ, then all future inspections by him WILL be very strict. that is just human nature, you show him he is wrong and he will get even. and this case the AHJ has the power to make your life hell!

In the city in which we live, I am a city commissioner on the Electrical Code Board of Review. Very simply, we are the final word on issues between building/home owners and the city and its version of the NEC code. We will not allow commercial occupancy permits until a building's electrical is brought up to code. On occasion we settle issues with home builders.