A. Required. A meter shall be installed on every regular service line. The utility shall specify the size and type of meter to be used.

B. Installation and Cost. Installation, moving, or removal of a meter shall be performed only if authorized by a work order issued by the utility clerk before the same is commenced. The utility shall inspect all such work to insure it is done in accordance with the utility’s specifications.

C. The property owner shall pay for the meter cost along with other tapping and connection fees. The utility shall retain ownership of the meter. Future replacement of the meter if due to malfunction, or upgrading for modernization by the utility shall be done without additional charge to the property owner for the meter. If the meter is changed at the request of the property owner to upgrade the service for a new or expanded use, then the property owner shall pay the cost of the new meter less the amount paid for the original meter.

D. The meter shall be installed in either a meter pit, at the property line, or in the building being serviced. The remote reader device shall be installed at a location meeting utility specifications. Both the meter and reader shall be installed in an accessible location meeting utility standards. The property owner shall be responsible for protecting the meter from freezing and the meter and remote device from damage. Damage to the meter or device shall be repaired at the property owner’s expense. Charges for such repairs shall be based on actual labor, equipment, and materials used in making the repair. If placed in a meter pit, such pit shall meet utility standards.

E. Tampering with the meter shall be considered a violation of this chapter and shall be grounds for immediate discontinuance of service. Additional action may be taken by the utility for theft of water.

F. The utility shall have the right to read meters during regular working hours without notice. The utility

shall have the right to inspect, replace, and maintain meters during regular working hours after reasonable notice is provided to the premises where located. (Ord. 653 § 1(part), 2004)