For the purpose of this ordinance certain rules of construction apply to the text, as follows:
A. Words used in the present tense include the future tense; and the singular includes the plural, unless the context clearly indicates the contrary.
B. The terms “shall” and “must” are always mandatory and not discretionary; the words “may” or “should” are permissive.
C. For the purpose of this ordinance, only terms having a specific or narrow meaning will be defined. Words and phrases defined herein shall be given the defined meaning. Whenever words or phrases used herein are not defined herein but are defined in the state laws regulating the creation and function of various local planning agencies or local building codes, that definition will apply. The dictionary definition will be used for terms not specifically defined in the ordinance except where the context clearly indicates a different or specified meaning.
D. The word “person” includes a firm, organization, association, partnership, trust, company, or corporation, as well as an individual.
E. The words “use” or “occupy” shall include the words “intended,” “designed,” or “arranged” to be “used” or “occupied.”
F. The word “building” includes “structure,” or any portion of a building or structure. The word “structure” means any man-made item.
G. The word “year” means the twelve-month period from the date of approval/disapproval of requested action.
H. The masculine includes the feminine.
I. Whenever any reference is made in this ordinance to any other section or provision of this or other ordinances, such reference shall be deemed to include the provision(s) or regulation(s) to which the reference is made.
(1980 Code, Ch. 154, § 7.01) (Ord. 2001-4, passed 3-27-2001)