§ 2-1001. Word usage.

Unless otherwise specifically provided, or unless clearly required by the context, the words and phrases defined in this section shall have the meaning indicated when used in this ordinance. To amplify and clarify all provisions of this ordinance, the following rules shall apply:

A.

Words used in the present tense shall include the future tense; words used in the singular number shall include the plural number, and the plural number shall include the singular number, unless the obvious construction of the wording indicates otherwise.

B.

The word "shall" is mandatory and not discretionary.

C.

The word "may" is permissive.

D.

The word "lot" shall include the words "piece," "tract", "parcel" and "plots;" the word "building" includes all other structures of every kind regardless of similarity to buildings; and the phrase "used for" shall include the phrase "arranged for" and "occupied for."

E.

All "measured distances" shall be rounded to the nearest "integral foot."

F.

The word "person" includes individuals, firms, corporations, associations, trusts, and any other similar entities.

G.

The word "county" shall mean Isle of Wight County, Virginia.

H.

The words "recorder" and "recorder of deeds" shall mean the Isle of Wight County Clerk of the Circuit Court.

I.

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

J.

The masculine gender shall include the feminine, and the feminine gender shall include the masculine.

In instances where a word is not defined in this chapter, the zoning administrator has the authority to interpret its meaning. In such cases the zoning administrator shall refer to the latest edition of Webster Collegiate Dictionary for the definition. Words currently defined in this chapter shall not be disputed. (7-7-05; 11-19-15; 7-19-18.)