The following rules of construction apply to the text of this chapter.
(1) The particular shall control the general.
(2) In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this chapter and any caption or illustration, the text shall control.
(3) The word "shall" is always mandatory and not discretionary. The word "may" is permissive.
(4) Words used in the present tense shall include the future; and words used in the singular number shall include the plural, and the plural the singular, unless the context clearly indicates the contrary.
(5) The word "building" or "structure" includes any part thereof.
(6) The phrase "used for" includes "arranged for," "designed for," "intended for," "maintained for" or "occupied for."
(7) The word "person" includes an individual, a corporation, a partnership, an unincorporated association, or any other similar entity.
(8) Unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, where a regulation involves 2 or more items, conditions, provisions or events connected by the conjunction "and," "or," or "either ... or," the conjunction shall be interpreted as follows:
(a) "And" indicates that all the connected items, conditions, provisions or events shall apply;
(b) "Or" indicates that the connected items, conditions, provisions or events may apply singly or in any combination;
(c) "Either ... or" indicates that the connected items, conditions, provisions or events shall apply singly but not in combination.
(9) Terms not defined in this article shall have the meaning customarily assigned to them.
(1993 Code, § 82-3) (Ord. passed 10-12-1992)
Cross reference:
Definitions and rules of construction generally, see § 1-2