For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates, or requires, a different meaning.
FRANCHISE. Any special privileges granted to any person in, over, upon, or under any of the streets, or public places, of the city, whether the privilege has heretofore been granted by it, or by the state, or shall hereafter be granted by the city, or by the state.
(Prior Code, § 2.62)