17-1-0600 General rules of interpretation.

   17-1-0601 Numbering Style. The first two numerals in a section number correspond to the Title of the Municipal Code in which the section is located – Title 17 in the case of this Zoning Ordinance. Chapter numbers are found between the first and second dashes in the section number. Thus “17-1-XXXX” identifies the first chapter of Title 17. The first two numerals following the second dash identify the section number. The third and fourth numerals following the second dash identify the subsection number. Thus, “17-1-0601" identifies Title 17, Chapter 1, Section 6, subsection 1.

   17-1-0602 Meanings and Intent. The language of the Zoning Ordinance must be read literally. Regulations are no more or less strict than stated. Words listed in Chapter 17-17 have the specific meaning assigned, unless the context expressly indicates another meaning. Words that are not defined in Chapter 17-17 have the meaning given in the latest edition of Merriam Webster's Collegiate Dictionary.

   17-1-0603 Tenses and Usage.

      17-1-0603-A Words used in the singular include the plural. The reverse is also true.

      17-1-0603-B Words used in the present tense include the future tense. The reverse is also true.

      17-1-0603-C The words “must”, “will”, “shall” and “may not” are mandatory.

      17-1-0603-D The word “may” is permissive, and “should” is advisory, not mandatory or required.

      17-1-0603-E When used with numbers, “Up to X”, “Not more than X” and “a maximum of X” all include X.

   17-1-0604 Conjunctions. Unless the context otherwise clearly indicates, conjunctions have the following meanings:

      17-1-0604-A “And” indicates that all connected items or provisions apply; and

      17-1-0604-B “Or” indicates that the connected items or provisions may apply singularly or in combination.

   17-1-0605 Fractions.

      17-1-0605-A Minimum Requirements. When a regulation is expressed in terms of a minimum requirement, any fractional result of 0.5 or more must be rounded up to the next consecutive whole number. For example, if a minimum requirement of one tree for every 30 linear feet is applied to a 50-foot dimension, the resulting fraction of 1.67 is rounded up to 2 required trees.

      17-1-0605-B Maximum Limits. When a regulation is expressed in terms of maximum limits, any fractional result will be rounded down to the next lower whole number. For example, if a maximum limit of one dwelling unit for every 2,500 square feet is applied to a 6,250 square foot lot, the resulting fraction of 2.5 is rounded down to 2 (allowed dwelling units).

   17-1-0606 Headings and Illustrations. Headings and illustrations are provided for convenience and reference only and do not define or limit the scope of any provision of this Zoning Ordinance. In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this Zoning Ordinance and any heading, drawing, table, figure, or illustration, the text controls.

   17-1-0607 References to Other Regulations. All references in the Zoning Ordinance to other city, county, state, or federal regulations are for informational purposes only, and do not constitute a complete list of such regulations. These references do not imply any responsibility by the city for enforcement of county, state, or federal regulations.

   17-1-0608 Current Versions and Citations. All references to other city, county, state, or federal regulations in the Zoning Ordinance refer to the most current version and citation for those regulations, unless expressly indicated otherwise. When the referenced regulations have been repealed and not replaced by other regulations, Zoning Ordinance requirements for compliance are no longer in effect.

   17-1-0609 Lists and Examples. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, lists of items or examples that use “including”, “such as”, or similar terms are intended to provide examples only. They are not to be construed as exhaustive lists of all possibilities.

   17-1-0610 Delegation of Authority. Whenever a provision appears requiring the head of a department or another officer or employee of the city to perform an act or duty, that provision will be construed as authorizing the department head or officer to delegate that responsibility to others over whom they have authority. Delegation of authority is not allowed when the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance expressly prohibit such a delegation.

   17-1-0611 Public Officials and Agencies. All employees, public officials, bodies, and agencies to which references are made are those of the City of Chicago unless otherwise expressly stated.

(Added Coun. J. 5-26-04, p. 25275; Amend Coun. J. 3-9-05, p. 44391)