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 this chapter apply throughout the Zoning Ordinance, except where the context indicates a different meaning.
The City Attorney shall have the responsibility and authority to interpret the meaning and applicability of all provisions and requirements of this title. Whenever the Community Development Director determines that the meaning or applicability of any of the requirements of this title is subject to interpretation generally, or as applied to a specific case, the Director may request an interpretation from the City Attorney and issue an official interpretation.
A. 
Minimum Requirements. The provisions of this title shall be regarded and applied as the minimum requirements and maximum potential limits for the promotion of public health, safety, comfort, convenience, and general welfare of the City and its residents. When this title provides for discretion on the part of a City official or body, that discretion may be exercised to impose more stringent requirements than identified in this title, as may be necessary to promote orderly land use development and the purposes of this title.
In interpreting the various provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, 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 Santa Barbara, unless otherwise indicated.
E. 
All references to public officials are to those of the City of Santa Barbara, 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. 
All references to the word "structure" shall include the word "building."
H. 
The words "shall," "will," "must" and "is to" are always mandatory and not discretionary. The words "should" or "may" are permissive.
I. 
The present tense includes the past and future tenses, and the future tense includes the past.
J. 
The singular number includes the plural, and the plural, the singular.
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.