Chapter 14.02.020 Rules of Interpretation

Chapter 14.02.020
Rules of Interpretation

Sections:

14.02.020.010 Interpretation of Language.

Where uncertainty exists regarding the interpretation of language or any provision of this title, the Director of Community Development shall make the interpretation or may refer the matter to other decision makers in accordance with the subsections listed below:

A. The Planning Commission shall make the interpretation for areas where the Commission has the jurisdiction to approve or recommend approval of the action in question, in accordance with Section 14.01.030.030, or the Planning Commission may refer the matter to the City Council for final determination;

B. The City Council shall make the interpretation for areas where the Council has jurisdiction to approve the action in question, in accordance with Section 14.01.030.020; and

C. If an interpretation is required pertaining to a matter not specifically listed within Section 14.01.030.020, 14.01.030.030, or 14.01.030.040, the interpretation shall be made by the City Council;

D. The Building Official shall make the interpretation for matters pertaining to the California Building Standards;

E. The Fire Chief shall make the interpretation for matters pertaining to the California Fire Code.

(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)

14.02.020.020 Rules of Interpretation.

The following rules of language interpretation shall apply:

A. If there is a conflict between two standards, the more restrictive standard shall apply.

B. The words “shall,” “must,” “will,” “is to,” and “are to” are always mandatory.

C. “Should” is not mandatory but is strongly recommended; and “may” is permissive.

D. The words “includes” and “including” shall mean “including but not limited to...”

E. Unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, the following conjunctions shall be interpreted as follows:

1. “And” indicates that all connected words or provisions shall apply.

2. “Or” indicates that the connected words or provisions may apply separately or in any combination.

3. “Either... or” indicates that the connected words or provisions shall apply separately but not in combination.

F. References to departments, divisions, sections, commissions, boards, or other offices are to those of the City unless otherwise indicated.

G. References to a public official in the City are to that position that performs the function referred to and includes a designee of such official.

H. All references to measurements are in feet unless otherwise indicated.

(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)