As used in this code and all ordinances, in all cases in which the spirit and intent may require it, the following shall apply.
(A) Computation of time. The time within which an act is to be done shall be computed by excluding the first day and including the last, and if the last day be a Sunday or a legal holiday, that shall be excluded.
(B) Delegation of authority. Whenever a provision appears requiring the head of a department to do some act or make certain inspections, it is to be construed to authorize subordinates to perform the required act or make the required inspection unless the terms of the provision or section designate otherwise.
(C) Gender. A word importing the masculine gender only shall extend and be applied to females and to firms, partnerships and corporations as well as males.
(D) Interpretation. In the interpretation and application of any provision of this code, it is held to be the minimum requirements adopted for the promotion of the public health, safety, comfort, convenience and general welfare. Where any provision of this code imposes greater restrictions upon the subject matter than the general provision imposed by this code, the provision imposing the greater restriction of regulation shall be deemed to be controlling.
(E) Nontechnical and technical words. Words and phrases shall be construed according to the common and approved usage of the language; but technical words and phrases and others as may have acquired a peculiar and appropriate meaning in law shall be construed and understood according to that meaning.
(F) Number. A word importing the singular number only may extend and be applied to several persons and things as well as to one person and thing, and the plural shall include the singular number.
(G) Time. Words used in the past or present tense include the future as well as the past and present.
(1995 Code, § 1-3042)