§ 23-177. Rules of construction.

For the purposes of administration and enforcement of this article, unless otherwise stated in this article, the following rules of construction shall apply:

(a)

In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this subdivision and any caption, illustration, summary table, or illustrative table, the text shall control.

(b)

The word "shall" is always mandatory and not discretionary; the word "may" is permissive.

(c)

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.

(d)

The word "person" includes an individual, a corporation, a partnership, an incorporated association, or any other similar entity.

(e)

Unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, where a regulation involves two (2) or more items, conditions, provisions, or events connected by the conjunction "and," "or," or "either … or," the conjunction shall be interpreted as follows:

(1)

And indicates that all the connected terms, conditions, provisions, or events shall apply.

(2)

Or indicates that the connected items, conditions, provisions, or events may apply singly or in any combination.

(3)

Either … or indicates that the connected items, conditions, provisions, or events shall apply singly but not in combination.

(f)

The word "includes" shall not limit a term to the specific example but is intended to extend its meaning to all other instances or circumstances of like kind or character.

(Ord. No. 2006-03 , § 1, 2-7-06)