In construing the intended meaning of terminology used in this code, the following rules shall be observed.
(A) Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in § 154.009; terms not defined in § 154.009 shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in the city’s Zoning Code (Chapter 155); if any term is not defined either in § 154.009 or in the Zoning Code, said term shall have its standard English dictionary meaning.
(B) Words denoting the masculine gender shall be deemed to include the feminine and neuter genders.
(C) Words used in the present tense shall include the future tense.
(D) Words used in the singular number shall include the plural number, and vice versa.
(E) The word “shall” is mandatory; the word “may” is discretionary.
(F) Captions (i.e., titles of sections, divisions and the like) are intended merely to facilitate general reference, and in no way limit the substantive application of the provisions set forth thereunder.
(G) References to sections shall be deemed to include all divisions within that section; but a reference to a particular division designates only that division.
(H) A general term that follows or is followed by enumerations of specific terms shall not be limited to the enumerated class unless expressly limited.
(1999 Code, § 34-2-1)