The following rules shall apply for construing or interpreting the terms and provisions of this Code:
(a) Specifics. The particular shall control the general.
(b) Meanings and Intent. The words, terms and phrases used in this Ordinance shall have the meaning assigned to them in Chapter 1191 - Definitions, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning. When a specific section of this Code gives a different meaning than the general definition provided in Chapter 1191, the specific section's meaning and application of the term shall control.
(c) Delegation of Authority. Any action authorized by this Code to be carried out by the Chief Building Inspector, City Engineer, Planning Director, Zoning Administrator or other City employee may be carried out by a designee of that employee.
(d) Headings, Illustrations, and Text. In the event of a conflict or inconsistency between the text of this Ordinance and any heading, caption, figure, illustration, table, or map, the text shall control.
(e) Lists and Examples. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, lists of items or examples that use terms such as "for example," "including," and "such as," or similar language are intended to provide examples and are not exhaustive lists of all possibilities.
(f) Conjunctions. Unless the context clearly suggests the contrary, conjunctions shall be interpreted as follows:
(1) "And" indicates that all connected items, conditions, provisions or events apply; and
(2) "Or" indicates that one (1) or more of the connected items, conditions, provisions or events apply.
(g) Tenses, Plurals, and Gender. Words used in the present tense include the future tense. 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. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine gender, and vice versa.
(h) Undefined Terms. Words not specifically defined shall be given the meaning customarily assigned to them.
(i) Mandatory and Discretionary Terms. The words "shall," "must," and "will" are mandatory in nature, establishing an obligation or duty to comply with the particular provision. The words "may" and "should" are permissive in nature.
(j) Technical and Non-Technical Terms. Words and phrases shall be construed according to the common and approved usage of the language, but technical words and phrases that may have acquired a peculiar and appropriate meaning in law shall be construed and understood according to such meaning.
(k) Other Terms.
(1) The term "used" includes the words "arranged, designed or intended to be used"
(2) The term "occupied" includes the words "arranged, designed or intended to be occupied"
(3) The word "structure" includes the word "building," "dwelling" or "unit"
(4) The word "lot" includes the word "plot," "parcel" or "tract"
(l) References to Other Regulations/Publications. Whenever reference is made to a resolution, ordinance, statute, regulation, or document, it shall be construed as a reference to the most recent edition of such resolution, ordinance, statute, regulation or document, unless otherwise specifically stated.
(m) Public Officials and Agencies. All public officials, bodies, and agencies to which references are made are those of the City of Lorain, unless otherwise indicated.
(Ord. 4-21. Passed 1-4-21.)