1. Number Of Meters; Dispute: Except as otherwise expressly permitted by this chapter, all structures, dwelling units, establishments and persons using water from the city water system must have such number of water meters connected to their water system as are necessary in the judgment of the superintendent to adequately measure use and determine water charges to the respective users. Whenever a dispute between the superintendent and the property owner arises as to the appropriate number of meters to be installed on any premises, the matter shall be heard and determined by the city council after due notice in writing to the parties involved.
2. Meters Furnished By City: Meters will be furnished by the city upon application for a connection, and upon payment of such connection fees and other costs as may be established by the city council from time to time by resolution. Meters shall be deemed to be and remain the property of the city. (1978 Code § 14-136)
3. Meter Readings: The city treasurer or city office shall cause meter readings to be taken regularly for the purpose of recording the necessary billings for water service. (1978 Code § 14-136; amd. 2004 Code)
4. Tampering: Meters may be checked, inspected or adjusted at the discretion of the city, and they shall not be adjusted or tampered with by the customer. Meter boxes shall not be opened for the purpose of turning on or off the water, except by an authorized representative of the city, unless special permission is given by the city through its representatives to the customer to do so. (1978 Code § 14-136)

Fee for tampering with a meter
$500
Lock out tags may be placed on meters to inform customers of the fee for tampering

5. Meter Testing: If a customer submits a request to the superintendent to test his water meter, the city may, if under the circumstances it deems it advisable and in its discretion, order a test of the meter measuring the water delivered to such customer. (1978 Code § 14-136; amd. 2004 Code)
6. Estimation In Case Of Failure: If the city meters fail to register at any time, the water delivered during the period of failure shall be estimated on the basis of previous consumption during a period which is not questioned. In the event a meter is found to be recording less than ninety seven percent (97%) or more than one hundred three percent (103%) of accuracy, the city shall make such adjustments in the customer's previous bills as are just and fair under the circumstances.
7. Damage By Customer: All damages or injury to the lines, meters or other materials of the city on or near the customer's premises caused by any act or neglect of the customer shall, in the discretion of the city, be repaired by and at the expense of the customer, and the customer shall pay all costs and expenses, including a reasonable attorney fee, which may arise or accrue to the city through its efforts to repair the damage to the lines, meters or to other equipment of the water department or collect such costs from the customer. (1978 Code § 14-136)