A. Construction: In the construction of this title, the rules and definitions contained in this section shall be observed and applied, except when the context clearly indicates otherwise.
1. Words used in the present tense shall include the future; and words used in the singular number shall include the plural number, and the plural the singular.
2. The word "shall" is mandatory and not discretionary.
3. The word "may" is permissive.
4. The word "lot" shall include the words "plot", "piece", and "parcel"; the word "building" includes all other structures of every kind regardless of similarity to buildings; and the phrase "used for" shall include the phrases "arranged for", "intended for", "designed for", "maintained for", and "occupied for".
5. The word "Village" means Village of Mt. Morris, Ogle County, Illinois.
6. The word "Commission" means the Plan Commission of the Village of Mt. Morris.
7. Unless otherwise specified, all distances shall be measured horizontally.
B. Interpretation:
1. Minimum Requirements: In their interpretation and application, provisions of this title shall be held to be the minimum requirements for the promotion of the public health, safety, morals and welfare.
2. Overlapping Or Contradictory Regulations: Where the conditions imposed by any provision of this title are either more restrictive or less restrictive than comparable conditions imposed by any other provision of this title or of any other law, ordinance, resolution, rule or regulation of any kind, the regulations which are more restrictive shall govern.
3. Private Agreements: This title is not intended to abrogate any easement, covenant or any other private agreement; provided, that where the regulations of this title are more restrictive than such easements, covenants or other private agreements, the requirements of this title shall govern.
4. Unlawful Uses: No building, structure, or use which was not lawfully existing at the time of the adoption of this title shall become or be made lawful solely by reason of the adoption of this title; and to the extent that, and in any matter that, said unlawful building, structure or use is in conflict with the requirements of this title, said building, structure or use remains unlawful hereunder.
5. Not A Licensing Title: Nothing contained in this title shall be deemed to be a consent, license or permit to use any property or to locate, construct or maintain any building, structure or facility or to carry on any trade, industry, occupation or activity.
6. Cumulative Effect: The provisions of this title are cumulative and are additional limitations upon all other laws and ordinances, heretofore passed or which may be passed hereafter, governing any subject matter in this title. (1979 Code § 5-1-5)