17.20.005 Rules for construction of language.
The following rules of construction apply to the text of this code:
(1) The particular shall control the general.
(2) In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this code and any caption, illustration, summary table, or illustrative table, the text shall control.
(3) The word “shall” is always mandatory and not discretionary. The word “should” is permissive and is discretionary.
(4) 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.
(5) A “building” or “structure” includes any part thereof.
(6) The phrase “used for” includes “arranged for,” “designed for,” “maintained for,” or “occupied for.”
(7) The word “person” includes an individual, a corporation, a partnership, an incorporated association, or any other similar entity.
(8) Unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, where a regulation involves two or more items, conditions, provisions, or events connected by the conjunction “and,” “or,” or “either/or,” the conjunction shall be interpreted as follows:
(a) “And” indicates that all the connected items, conditions, provisions, or events shall apply.
(b) “Or” indicates that the connected items, conditions, provisions, or events may apply singly or in any combination.
(c) “Either/or” indicates that the connected items, conditions, provisions, or events shall apply singly but not in combination.
(9) The word “includes” shall not limit a term to the specified examples, but is intended to extend its meaning to all other instances or circumstances of like kind or character. (Ord. 929 Ch. 4, 1995).