The language set forth in the text of this Code shall be interpreted in accordance with the following rules of construction:
(A) The singular number includes the plural, and the plural the singular.
(B) The present tense includes the past and future tenses, and the future tense includes the present.
(C) The word “shall” is mandatory, while the word “may” is permissive.
(D) Both of the terms “shall not” and “may not” are prohibiting.
(E) The masculine gender includes the feminine and neuter.
(F) Whenever a defined word or term appears in the text of this Code, its meaning shall be construed as set forth in the definition. Any word appearing in parenthesis, between a word and its definition herein, shall be construed in the same sense as that word. Words not defined shall be interpreted in accordance with the definitions considered to be normal dictionary usage.
(G) If a definition contains a regulation and the use is inconsistent with that regulation, the use is prohibited.
(Ord. 929, passed 1-25-11; Ord. 1076, passed 1-23-18)