§ 13.04.180. Theft of energy.

A.

In applying for service the customer agrees that the department may install and maintain equipment on the customer's premises for the proper metering of energy and distribution of current to prevent the theft thereof. Any customer who tampers with department's equipment to avoid payment of the rates herein prescribed, or to reconnect service that has been disconnected by department, is liable to punishment therefor pursuant to law. Upon discovery of such tampering, the general manager may cause the service to be disconnected and remove all equipment installed by the department forthwith. If the premises is vacant or the equipment installed is no longer needed, such equipment may be removed at any time upon order of the general manager of the department.

B.

Any person or agency apprehended using electricity without permission from a power line, electrical service, or other system connection will be charged for each occurrence a minimum of $300.00, or such other charge as established by resolution of the city council, plus the cost of electricity estimated to have been used. Investigation costs may be added thereto at the option of the general manager.

(Ord. 6554 §§ 1, 2, 1993; Ord. 4922 § 14, 1969: Ord. 3365 § 13, 1937: Ord. 2947 § 20, 1931)