Columbia Meter location ordinance (§ 27-96)
Chapter 27: Utilities · Article III. Water and Light System
In short: Meters normally go outdoors where the department approves; indoor meters need the director's approval, ready access, a clear 3-foot space, and customer-supplied special mounting equipment if needed. Outdoor meters sit 5.5–7 feet above ground; indoor ones 3–7 feet above the floor.
Our plain-English summary, not the official text or legal advice. The ordinance below is what counts.
(a) Meters shall normally be installed outdoors in a location approved by the department.
(b) Meters may be installed indoors by special approval of the director, provided the customers agree to the following:
(1)
To leave the premises unlocked during all regular working hours of the department, or to otherwise provide ready access to the meters at all times.
(2) To provide a clear space of at least three (3) feet horizontally from all meters and to provide a clear, unobstructed passageway to all meters at all times.
(3) If special meter-mounting equipment is required, such as group meter sockets, or combination meter socket and service switches, the customer shall furnish and install such equipment.
(c) Meters outdoors shall be installed a minimum of five and one-half (5.5) feet and/or a maximum of seven
(7) feet above the ground or other accessible pedestrian surface. Meters indoors shall be installed at a minimum of three (3) feet and/or a maximum of seven (7) feet from the floor.
Official source: City of Columbia official Code of Ordinances (online): look up Sec. 27-96
Text from Supplement 139 (September 3, 2026).
Last checked November 1, 2026. The city's official copy controls; this page is a reading copy, not legal advice.