Codification & Ordinances Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of a municipal code supplement?

Answer: To insert newly adopted ordinances and remove superseded provisions

A supplement updates the municipal code by incorporating new ordinances and removing sections that have been repealed or superseded.

Which type of ordinance is typically NOT included in a permanent municipal code?

Answer: A temporary street closure for a special event

Temporary or special ordinances with limited applicability are generally excluded from the permanent code and retained only in ordinance books.

When a municipality adopts a code by reference, what must typically be done to make it enforceable?

Answer: Keep copies of the referenced document available for public inspection

When adopting standards by reference, municipalities must make the referenced document publicly available so citizens can access the law.

A 'saving clause' in an ordinance primarily serves to:

Answer: Preserve rights and proceedings existing before the ordinance's repeal

A saving clause ensures that the repeal of an ordinance does not extinguish pending legal actions or vested rights that arose under the old law.

In codification, what does 'catch-lining' refer to?

Answer: Writing brief descriptive headings for each code section

Catch-lines are short, descriptive headings placed at the beginning of each section to help readers quickly identify the subject matter.

Which body typically has final authority to approve a newly codified municipal code?

Answer: The governing body (council or commission)

The governing body must formally adopt the codified code by ordinance, giving it the force of law.

What is the function of an 'enabling clause' in an ordinance?

Answer: It cites the legal authority under which the ordinance is enacted

The enabling clause identifies the constitutional, statutory, or charter authority that grants the municipality the power to enact the ordinance.