§ 10.04. RULES OF CONSTRUCTION.

(A)

Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Words and phrases that have acquired a technical or particular meaning, whether by legislative definition or otherwise, shall be construed accordingly.

(B)

As used in the code, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1)

The singular includes the plural, and the plural includes the singular.

(2)

Words of one gender include the other genders.

(3)

Words in the present tense include the future.

(C)

Calendar; computation of time.

(1)

The time within which an act is to be done shall be computed by excluding the first day and including the last. If the last day be Sunday it shall be excluded. (S.C. Code § 15-1-20)

(2)

In all cases where the law requires any act to be done in a reasonable time or reasonable notice to be given, such reasonable time or notice shall mean the time only as may be necessary for the prompt performance of such duty or compliance with such notice.

(D)

Authority. When the law requires an act to be done which may by law as well be done by an agent as by the principal, such requirement shall be construed to include such acts when done by an authorized agent.

(E)

Joint authority. All words purporting to give joint authority to three or more municipal officers or other persons shall be construed as giving such authority to a majority of the officers or other persons, unless it is otherwise expressly declared in the law giving the authority or inconsistent with state statute or other provisions.

(F)

Bond. When a bond is required, an undertaking in writing shall be sufficient.

(G)

Name of officer. Whenever the name of an officer is given, it shall be construed as though the words "of the Municipality of Lexington" were added.

(H)

Interpretation. In the interpretation and application of any provision of this Code, it shall be held to be the minimum requirements adopted for the promotion of the public health, safety, comfort, convenience, and general welfare. Where any provision of this Code imposes greater restrictions upon the subject matter than the general provision imposed by this Code, the provision imposing the greater restriction or regulation shall be deemed to be controlling.

(I)

Exceptions. The rules of construction shall not apply to any law which contains any express provision excluding such construction, or when the subject matter or context of such law may be repugnant thereto.