PRELIMINARY UNIT

   EDITOR'S NOTE

      The numbering system used in these Codified Ordinances is similar to that used in the Ohio Revised Code and is consistent with general practice. Each section is self-identifying as to code, chapter and section number. For example, 238.02 indicates that the code number is 2, the chapter number is 238 (or the 38th chapter within code 2), and the section number is .02. The code and chapter numbers appear left of the decimal, with the code number preceding the first two digits left of the decimal, and the chapter number being the first two digits left of the decimal. The section number appears to the right of the decimal. As another example, 408.01 indicates that the code number is 4, the chapter number is 408 (or the 8th chapter within code 4), and the section number is .01.

      With this numbering system, the Codified Ordinances may be expanded almost endlessly. Codes, titles and chapters are initially even-numbered, thus reserving the use of odd numbers for future legislation. Sections within chapters are consecutively numbered, except that penalty provisions are usually assigned the number .99, as in the Revised Code. Exceptions are the Traffic and General Offenses Codes, where the penalties are either grouped in one chapter in each Code or are included as part of the sections. Newly created sections subsequent to the original codification may be indicated by three digits right of the decimal in the event the law properly belongs between two consecutively numbered sections. For example, newly created 660.061, 660.062 and 660.063 follow 660.06 and precede 660.07 to be placed in their logical position.

      Section histories enable a user to trace the origin of the law contained in the section. The history indicates the derivation by reference to either its passage date and the ordinance number originally assigned to it at that time, or to its inclusion in any prior code. Sections and subsections without histories or with the words "Adopting Ordinance" at the end thereof are or contain new matter ordained by the Adopting Ordinance that enacts these Codified Ordinances.

      The Comparative Section Table is included to show the disposition of every ordinance and resolution included in these Codified Ordinances. It indicates whether a given ordinance or resolution was consolidated with another into one section or split into two or more sections. Cross references direct the user to subject matter reasonably related to material contained within a given chapter.