§ 24-4. Interference with city property prohibited; responsibility.

(a)

All persons are prohibited from interfering with or disturbing in any manner or form, any electricity, gas or water meters, switches, locks, cutoffs, corporation cocks, above and below ground utility lines and infrastructures which includes fiber, gas, water, sewer, storm sewer, or electricity or other appliances of the city. Additionally, appropriation or use any gas or water or sewer or electricity after service has been cut off or discontinued for the nonpayment of the charges therefore or for other cause. The head of the household, property owner, or if a contractor is responsible they shall be held responsible for the violation of this section. Penalties of up to one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) shall be assessed.

(b)

Tampering with meters includes, but is not limited to, placement of any device that modifies, alters, nullifies or adjust the accuracy of the city meter that is in place. This includes any device that is mechanical, hydraulic, or electric that creates a pulse, harmonic, or interference in any way with city meters.

(c)

Additionally, anyone convicted of tampering with a meter is responsible for reimbursement of all lost charges and all taxes, costs and expenses for the use of said utilities due to said tampering.

(d)

Unauthorized operation of a city owned hydrant will result in a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500.00).

(Code 1976, § 6-2006; Ord. No. 05-93, 2-18-93; Ord. No. 50-09, § 1, 12-17-09; Ord. No. 04-12, § 1, 1-19-12)

State law reference

Property damage, O.C.G.A. § 16-7-22 et seq.