Chapter 2. Rules of Construction

Sec. 1-2.01 Construction of Code.

The provisions of this Code and all proceedings under it are to be liberally construed, with a view to effect its objects as to promote justice. Said provisions, insofar as they are substantially the same as ordinances heretofore adopted by the City, shall be construed as continuations thereof and not as new enactments.

Sec. 1-2.02 Words and Phrases.

Words and phrases used in this Code, and not specifically defined, shall be construed according to the context and approved usage of the language.

Sec. 1-2.03 Headings.

Title, chapter, article and section headings contained herein shall not be deemed to govern, limit, modify or in any manner affect the scope, meaning or intent of the provisions of any title, chapter, article or section hereof.

Sec. 1-2.04 Acts by Deputy.

Whenever a power is granted to, or a duty is imposed upon a public officer, or employee, the power may be exercised, or the duty may be performed by a deputy of such officer or employee or by a person otherwise duly authorized pursuant to law or ordinance, unless this Code expressly provides otherwise.

Sec. 1-2.05 Reference Applies to Amendments.

Whenever a reference is made to any portion of this Code, or to any ordinances of this City, the reference applies to all amendments and additions now or hereafter made.

Sec. 1-2.06 Notice—How Given.

Whenever a notice is required to be given under this Code, unless different provisions herein are otherwise specifically made, such notice may be given either by personal delivery thereof to the person to be notified or by deposit in the United States Mail, in a sealed envelope, postage prepaid, addressed to such person to be notified, at his last known business or residence address as the same appears in the public records of the City or other records pertaining to the matter to which such notice is directed. Service by mail shall be deemed to have been completed at the time of deposit in the United States Mail.

Sec. 1-2.07 Proof of Notice.

Proof of giving any notice may be made by the certificate of any officer or employee of the City, or by affidavit of any person over the age of eighteen years, which shows service in conformity with this Code, or other provision of law applicable to the subject matter concerned.

Sec. 1-2.08 Tenses.

The present tense includes the past and future tenses, and the future, the present.

Sec. 1-2.09 Gender.

Any gender includes the other genders.

Sec. 1-2.10 Number.

The singular number includes the plural, and the plural, the singular.

Sec. 1-2.11 Shall and May.

“Shall” is mandatory and “may” is permissive.