The purpose of this chapter is to provide precision in the interpretation of the zoning regulations. The meaning and construction of words and phrases defined in the chapter apply throughout this zoning code, except where the context indicates a different meaning.
(Ord. 1598)
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. 
"Or" indicates that the connected words or provisions may apply singly or in any combination.
3. 
"Either... or" indicates that the connected words or provisions shall apply singly but not in combination.
C. 
The words "activities" and "facilities" include any part thereof of the activity or facility.
D. 
In case of conflict between the text and a graphic or diagram, the text controls.
E. 
References to departments, commissions, boards, or other offices are to those of the city unless otherwise indicated.
F. 
References to a public official in the city are to that person who performs the function referred to and includes a designated deputy of such official.
G. 
All references to days are to calendar days, unless otherwise indicated. In the event a date ends on a Saturday, Sunday, or a day when the city offices are closed, the date shall be the next consecutive business day. The end of a period shall be the close of business on the last day.
H. 
State Law Requirements. Where this zoning code references applicable provisions of State law (for example, the California Government Code, Subdivision Map Act, or Public Resources Code), the reference shall be construed to be to the applicable State law provisions as they may be amended from time to time.
I. 
Chapter and Section Headings. Chapter 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. 1598)
A. 
Zoning Regulations. Where uncertainty exists regarding the interpretation of any provision of this zoning code or its application to a specific site, the director shall determine the intent of the provision pursuant to Chapter 11.5.25: Director Determination, Section 11.5.25.010: Zoning Conformance Review Procedures.
B. 
Zoning Map. The following rules shall apply to zoning boundary determinations:
1. 
Where the exact boundaries of a district cannot be readily or exactly ascertained by reference to the official zoning map, the boundary shall be deemed to be along the nearest street, lot line, or geographic feature, such as a creek or hilltop, as the case may be.
2. 
Public streets, utility and other rights-of-ways shall be in the same zoning district as contiguous property. Where contiguous properties are classified in different zoning districts, the centerline of the street or right-of-way shall be the district boundary, unless otherwise depicted on the zoning map.
3. 
If any uncertainty remains as to the location of a district boundary or other feature shown on the zoning map, the location shall be determined by the director.
C. 
Interpretations. The director shall keep a record of interpretations made pursuant to this section which shall be available to the public.
1. 
Procedure for Interpretations. Whenever the director determines, pursuant to state law, that the meaning or applicability of any of the requirements of this zoning code are subject to interpretation generally, or as applied to a specific case, the director may issue an official interpretation. The director may also forward any interpretation of the meaning or applicability of any provision of this zoning code directly to the planning commission for a determination at a public meeting.
2. 
Findings, Basis for Interpretation. The issuance of an interpretation shall include findings stating the basis for the interpretation. The basis for an interpretation may include technological changes or new industry standards. The issuance of an interpretation shall also include a finding documenting the consistency of the interpretation with other provisions of this code.
3. 
Record of Interpretations. Official interpretations shall be:
a. 
Written, and shall quote the provisions of this zoning code being interpreted, and the applicability in the particular or general circumstances that caused the need for interpretations, and the determination; and
b. 
Distributed to the council, commission, city manager, city attorney, city clerk, and department staff within 3 days of issuing such written interpretation.
Any provision of this zoning code that is determined by the director to need refinement or revision will be corrected by amending this zoning code as soon as is practical. Until an amendment can occur, the director will maintain a complete record of all official interpretations as an appendix to this zoning code, and indexed by the number of the chapter and section that is the subject of the interpretation.
4. 
Appeal. An interpretation of the provisions of this zoning code may be appealed in compliance with Title 1: General Provisions, Chapter 1.20: Review of Quasi-Judicial Decisions.
(Ord. 1598)