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Series 100 — INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONSArticle 102 — RULES FOR CONSTRUCTION OF LANGUAGE

102.02: RULES FOR CONSTRUCTION:

Porterville Zoning Code · 2026-07 edition · updated 2026-07-09 · Porterville

In interpreting the various provisions of this chapter, the following rules of construction shall apply:

  • A. The particular controls the general.

  • B. 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. "And/or" indicates that the connected words or provisions may apply singly or in any combination.

  3. "Or" indicates that the connected words or provisions may apply singly or in any combination.

  4. "Either . . . or" indicates that the connected words or provisions shall apply singly but not in combination.

  • C. In case of conflict between the text and a diagram or graphic, the text controls.

  • D. All references to departments, committees, commissions, boards, or other public agencies are to those of the city of Porterville, unless otherwise indicated.

  • E. All references to public officials are to those of the city of Porterville, and include designated deputies of such officials, unless otherwise indicated.

F. All references to days are to calendar days, unless otherwise indicated. If a deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, or a day when the city offices are closed, it shall be extended to the next working day. The end of a time period shall be the close of business on the last day of the period.

  • G. The words "shall", "will", "must" and "is to" are always mandatory and not discretionary. The words "should" or "may" are permissive.

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

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

J. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine and the feminine the masculine.

K. Sections and section headings contained herein shall not be deemed to govern, limit, modify, or in any manner affect the scope, meaning, or intent of any section. (Ord. 1801, 12-3-2013)

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Contents — Porterville Zoning Code

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