Sec. 42.20.040. - Removal of instrument or meter or disconnecting of wire.

An agent or employee of a telephone or electric light company may not remove any instrument or meter or disconnect any wire connected to the instrument or meter without notifying the owner, agent, or tenant of the building or room where the instrument or meter is installed. A notice in writing of the intention to remove the instrument or meter or to disconnect a wire is sufficient if delivered to the owner, agent, or tenant of the building or room before removal or disconnection, or in case of the absence of the owner, agent, or tenant, either by depositing the notice in the post office with postage prepaid, or by posting in a conspicuous place upon the building or room 24 hours before removal or disconnection. An agent or employee of a telephone or electric light company may not enter a building or room to examine, remove, or disconnect an instrument or meter without first announcing the agent's or employee's presence to the occupant. A person violating this section is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction, is punishable by a fine of not more than $200, or by imprisonment for not more than 30 days, or by both.