For the purposes of this article:
(1) "County" shall mean that area comprising the county other than municipalities;
(2) "Public officer" shall mean the officer or officers who are authorized by ordinances adopted hereunder to exercise the powers prescribed by such ordinances;
(3) "Owner" shall mean the holder of the title in fee simple and every mortgagee of record;
(4) "Parties in interest" shall mean all individuals, associations, corporations and others who have interests of record in a dwelling and any who are in possession thereof; and
(5) "Dwelling" shall mean any building or structure, or part thereof, used and occupied for human habitation or intended to be so used and includes any outhouses and appurtenances belonging thereto or usually enjoyed therewith.