Chapter 18.06
RULES AND INTERPRETATION
Sections:
18.06.020 Rules of interpretation.
18.06.030 Conflicts with other regulations.
18.06.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to specify the authority and procedures for clarification of ambiguity in the regulations of this title in order to ensure the consistent interpretation and application of the title. (Ord. 738 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2013).
18.06.020 Rules of interpretation.
The planning director shall have the authority and responsibility to interpret terms, provisions, and requirements of this code in accordance with the rules listed below.
A. Abbreviations. The following phrases, personnel, and document titles are shortened in this code:
1. City of Patterson = City.
2. Planning Director = Director.
3. City Council = Council.
4. Planning Department = Department.
B. Terminology. The following rules apply to all provisions in this code:
1. Language. The words “shall,” “will,” “is to,” and “are to” and similar words and phrases are always mandatory. “Should” is not mandatory but is strongly recommended, and “may” is permissive.
2. Tense and Number. The present tense includes the past and future tense, and the future tense includes the present. The singular number includes the plural, and plural numbers include the singular unless the natural construction of the word indicates otherwise.
3. Conjunctions. “And” indicates that all connected items or provisions shall apply. “Or” indicates that the connected items or provisions may apply singly or in any combination. “Either…or” indicates that the connected items and provisions shall apply singly but not in combination. “Includes” and “including” shall mean “including but not limited to.”
C. Number of Days. Whenever a number of days is specified in this code, or in any entitlement, condition of approval, or notice issued or given as provided in this code, the number of days shall be construed as calendar days, unless business days are specified. Time limits will extend to the following business day where the last of the specified number of days falls on a day that the city is not open for business.
D. Minimum Requirements. All provisions of this code are considered to be minimum requirements, unless specifically stated otherwise.
E. Calculations—Rounding. Where any provision of this code requires calculation to determine applicable requirements, any fractional/decimal results of the calculation shall be rounded to the nearest whole number (0.5 or more is rounded up, less than 0.5 is rounded down).
F. Zoning Regulations. Any list of any item, including zones or uses, is exclusive. If a use or other item is not listed, it is not permitted unless the use is determined to be similar to a listed use or use category.
G. Zone Boundaries. Where uncertainty exists as to the boundaries of any districts shown on the official zoning map, the following rules shall apply:
1. Where a zoning district’s boundaries approximately follow lot, alley, or street lines, such lot lines and street and alley centerlines shall be construed as the district boundaries.
2. If a zoning district’s boundary line divides a lot and the boundary line location is not otherwise designated by ordinance, the location of the boundary line shall be determined by use of the scale appearing on the zoning map.
3. Where a public street or alley is officially vacated or abandoned, the property encompassed by said street or alley shall be included within the district or districts of the adjoining property on either side of said vacated or abandoned street or alley. If the adjoining properties are in different zoning districts, the boundary lines shall be the centerline of the former street or alley and the extension of the side yard lines of the adjacent properties.
H. Consistency of Text and Diagrams. Diagrams are provided within this code to illustrate the requirements of the zoning code’s text. In the event of conflict between the text of this code and provided diagrams, the text shall determine the city’s regulations. (Ord. 738 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2013).
18.06.030 Conflicts with other regulations.
Wherever conflict occurs between the provisions of this title and any other provision of law, the more restrictive of any such provisions shall apply. (Ord. 738 § 1 (Exh. A) (part), 2013).