The following rules of construction apply to the text of this chapter.
(A) The particular shall control the general.
(B) In the case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this chapter and any caption or illustration, the text shall control.
(C) The word “shall” is always mandatory and not discretionary. The word “may” is permissive and discretionary.
(D) Words used in the present tense shall include the future, and words used in the singular number shall include the plural, and the plural the singular, unless the context clearly indicates the contrary.
(E) A “building” or “structure” includes any part thereof.
(F) The phrase “used for” includes “arranged for”, “designed for”, “intended for”, “maintained for”, or “occupied for”.
(G) The word “person” includes an individual, firm, a corporation, company, copartnership, partnership, an incorporated association, club, joint venture, estate, trust, or any other similar entity, group, or combination acting as a unit. The singular masculine pronoun shall include the feminine, neuter, and plural; unless the intention to give a more limited meaning is disclosed by the context.
(H) Unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, where a regulation involves two or more items, conditions, provision, or events connected by the conjunction “and”, “or”, “either...or”, the conjunction shall be interpreted as follows.
(1) “And” indicates that all the connected items, conditions, provisions, or events shall apply; and
(2) “Or” indicates that the connected items, conditions or provisions, or events may apply singularly or in any combination.
(I) Terms not herein defined shall have the meaning customarily assigned to them.
(Prior Code, § 153.020) (Ord. D-1418, § 201, passed 11-22-1982, effective 1-21-1983)