Unless specifically defined below, words and phrases used throughout this subchapter shall be given the meaning they have in ordinary English usage so as to give this subchapter its most reasonable application.
ADDITION. Any act or process which changes 1 or more of the exterior architectural features of a structure by adding to, joining with, or otherwise increasing the size or capacity of the structure.
ALTERATION. Any act or process which changes 1 or more of the exterior architectural features of structure, including but not limited to the erection, construction, reconstruction, or removal of any structure.
BUILDING. Any structure created for the support, shelter, or enclosure of persons, animals, or property of any kind and which is permanently affixed to the ground.
CONSTRUCTION. The act or process of erecting a new principal or accessory structure on a lot or property, or the act of adding an addition to an existing structure.
DEMOLITION. Any act or process that destroys in part or in whole a building or structure.
EXTERIOR ARCHITECTURAL APPEARANCE. The architectural and general composition of the exterior of a structure, including but not limited to the kind, color, and texture of the building materials and the type, design, and character of all windows, doors, light fixtures, signs, and appurtenant elements of the exterior portions of the structure.
OWNER OF RECORD. The person, corporation, or other entity listed as the owner in the records of the office of the Recorder of Piatt County, Illinois.
REHABILITATION. The act or process of returning a building or structure to a state of utility through repair or alteration, which makes possible an efficient, contemporary use while at the same time preserving those portions and features of the building or structure that are significant to its historic, social, or architectural heritage.
REMOVAL. Any relocation of a building or structure to another site.
REPAIR. Any change that does not require a building permit and which is not construction, relocation, or alteration.
STRUCTURAL CHANGE. Any change in the supporting members of a building, structure, roof, or exterior walls which expands or alters the building in height, width, bulk, or strength.
STRUCTURE. Anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires attachment to, on, or in the ground, including without limitation buildings, homes, fences, gazebos, advertising or other signs, billboards, backstops for tennis courts, radio and television antennae, satellite dishes, and solar panels.