The language of the zoning law must be read literally. Regulations are no more or less strict than stated. Words defined in Article 70, General Terms, have the specific meaning assigned, unless the context expressly indicates another meaning. Words that are not defined in Article 70 but defined in the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code applicable to general building construction shall have the meanings ascribed therein.
A. 
Words used in the singular include the plural. The reverse is also true.
B. 
Words used in the present tense include the future tense. The reverse is also true.
C. 
The words "must," "will," "shall" and "may not" are mandatory.
D. 
The word "may" is permissive, and "should" is advisory, not mandatory or required.
E. 
When used with numbers, "up to X," "not more than X" and "a maximum of X" all include X.
F. 
The words "building" or "structure" include the whole or any part thereof.
Unless the context otherwise clearly indicates, conjunctions have the following meanings:
A. 
"And" indicates that all connected items or provisions apply; and
B. 
"Or" indicates that the connected items or provisions may apply singularly or in combination.
The following rules apply to fractional number unless otherwise expressly stated.
A. 
Minimum requirements. When a regulation is expressed in terms of a minimum requirement, any fractional result of 0.5 or more must be rounded up to the next consecutive whole number. For example, if a minimum requirement calling for one tree to be provided for every 30 linear feet of frontage is applied to a fifty-foot dimension, the resulting fraction of 1.67 is rounded up to two required trees.
B. 
Maximum limits. When a regulation is expressed in terms of maximum limits, any fractional result will be rounded down to the next lower whole number. For example, if a maximum limit of one dwelling unit for every 5,000 square feet is applied to a 12,500 square foot lot, the resulting fraction of 2.5 is rounded down to two permitted dwelling units.
Headings and illustrations are provided for convenience and reference only and do not define or limit the scope of any provision of this zoning law. In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this zoning law and any heading, drawing, table, figure, or illustration, the text controls.
All references to other town, county, state, or federal laws and regulations in the zoning law refer to the most current version and citation for those regulations, unless expressly indicated otherwise. When the referenced regulations have been repealed and not replaced by other regulations, zoning law requirements for compliance are no longer in effect.
Unless otherwise expressly indicated, lists of items or examples that use "including," "such as," or similar terms are intended to provide examples only. They are not to be construed as exhaustive lists of all possibilities.
Whenever a provision appears requiring the head of a department or another officer or employee of the Town to perform an act or duty, that provision will be construed as authorizing the department head or officer to delegate that responsibility to others over whom they have authority. Delegation of authority is not allowed when the provisions of this zoning law expressly prohibit such a delegation.
All employees, public officials, bodies, and agencies to which references are made are those of the Town of Manchester unless otherwise expressly stated.