The following rules shall apply for construing or interpreting the terms and provisions of this code.
(a) Meanings and Intent.
(1) All provisions, terms, phrases, and expressions contained in this code shall be interpreted in accordance with the general purposes set forth in Section 1101.01: Purpose, and the specific purpose statements set forth throughout this code. When a specific section of this code gives a different meaning than the general definition provided in this chapter, the specific section's meaning and application of the term shall control.
(2) For the purposes of this code "occupied" or "used" shall be considered as though followed by the words "or intended, arranged or designed to be used or occupied".
(b) Headings, Illustrations, and Text. In the event of a conflict or inconsistency between the text of this code and any heading, caption, figure, illustration, table, or map, the text shall control. Graphics and other illustrations are provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a complete and accurate description of all applicable regulations or requirements.
(c) Lists and Examples. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, lists of items or examples that use terms like "for example," "including," and "such as," or similar language are intended to provide examples and are not exhaustive lists of all possibilities.
(d) References to Other Regulations or Publications. Whenever reference is made to a code, statute, regulation, or document, it shall be construed as a reference to the most recent edition of such code, statute, regulation, or document, unless otherwise specifically stated.
(e) Technical and Nontechnical 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.
(f) Public Officials and Agencies. All public officials, bodies, and agencies to which references are made are those of the City of Mount Vernon, unless otherwise indicated.
(g) 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.
(h) 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 or more of the connected items, conditions, provisions, or events apply.
(i) Tenses and Plurals. 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.
(j) Terms Related to Specific Chapters and Sections. Some terms have a specific definition related to a set chapter or section in this code but could otherwise be misinterpreted as a common term and definition defined elsewhere in this code. Where such terms exist, a parenthetical reference is included following the term and shall relate to the sections identified in Table 1117-1, below. Such terms may also relate to other definitions in this chapter.
(k) Terms Not Defined. Words and terms not specifically defined carry their customarily understood meanings. If a term used in this code is not defined in this chapter, the ZEO shall also have the authority to provide a definition based upon the definitions used in accepted sources, including but not limited to, A Planners Dictionary, A Glossary of Zoning, Development, and Planning Terms, and A Survey of Zoning Definitions, published by the American Planning Association. The ZEO may also rely on Webster's Dictionary or a similar source for the definition of terms.
(Ord. 2024-032. Passed 7-22-24.)