For purposes of this chapter, the following rules of construction shall apply.
(A) Word interpretation. Words not defined in this chapter shall be given their ordinary and common meaning.
(B) Tense. Words used in the present tense include the future tense. Words used in the singular number include the plural, and words used in the plural number include the singular, unless the natural construction of the wording indicates otherwise.
(C) Singular and plural. Words used in the singular number include the plural number, and the plural number includes the singular number, unless the context of the particular usage clearly indicates otherwise.
(D) Mandatory meaning. The words “shall”, “will”, and “must” are mandatory in nature implying an obligation or duty to comply with the particular provision.
(E) Gender. As used in this chapter, words importing the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter.
(F) References. Any reference to a subchapter or section shall mean a subchapter or section of this chapter, unless otherwise specified.
(G) “Written” or “in writing” is deemed to include electronic documentation. For similar state law provisions, refer to G.S.§ 160D-110(b).
(H) Delivery. Unless specified otherwise, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, delivery by first-class mail shall be deemed received on the third business day following deposit of the item for mailing with the United States Postal Service, and delivery by electronic mail shall be deemed received on the date sent. For similar state law provisions, refer to G.S. § 160D-110(c).
(I) Person. Includes a firm, association, organization, corporation, company, trust, and partnership as well as an individual.
(J) May and should. Are permissive; an officially adopted course or method of action intended to be followed.
(K) Shall and will. Are always mandatory and not merely directive; expresses determination to implement/take action.
(L) Used for. Shall include the meaning “designed for.”
(M) Used or occupied. Shall mean “intended, designed, and arranged to be used or occupied.”
(N) Lot. Shall include the words “plot,” “parcel,” “site,” and “premises.”
(O) Building. Shall include the word “structure.”
(P) Street. Includes the word “alley,” “road,” “cul-de-sac,” “highway,” or “thoroughfare,” whether designated as public or private.
(Q) Includes. Shall not limit the term to specified examples, but is intended to extend its meaning to all other instances or circumstances of like kind or character.
(R) Zoning Administrator. Shall mean the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee.
(S) Planning Board. Shall mean the “Town of Fairmont Planning Board.”
(T) Town. Shall mean the “Town of Fairmont,” a municipality of the State of North Carolina.
(U) Map and zoning map. Shall mean the “Official Zoning Map for the Town of Fairmont, North Carolina.”
(V) Board of Adjustment. Shall mean the “Town of Fairmont Board of Adjustment.”
(Ord. 23-241, passed 7-18-2023)