Meter Obstructions

The Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project installation phase began in September 2024. Some electrical meters across the city are currently obstructed and need to be cleared before replacement.

Why You Need to Remove Obstructions

To ensure your electrical meter is replaced efficiently, owners or occupants must remove any obstruction on or near the electrical meter in compliance with Electric Utility Bylaw No. 6502, 1998, section 30.

Important: Failure to remove a meter obstruction may result in:

• Delayed meter replacement
• Radio-off charges added to your utility account

Space Requirements

The City's contractor needs:

• One (1) metre of unobstructed access in front of the meter
• Clear access around the meter to perform the installation

Common Obstructions

Examples of obstructions include:

• Custom-built enclosures
• Large shrubs or bushes
• Fences
• Home renovations that block meter access
• House siding or panel covers preventing access to the meter, meter base, and meter ring

How to Remove Obstructions

There must be enough space around the meter, meter base, and meter ring to exchange the electrical meter.

General guide: If the meter base cover can be removed, there is likely enough space for the meter ring to be removed and the meter to be exchanged.

Note: If you have a meter cover or panel, it should be easily removable or hinged.

Need help?

If you are uncertain about what is required or unsure about how to remove the obstruction, please contact Electrical Operations at 604-515-3750 or ami@newwestcity.ca for assistance.

 

Please contact the City to confirm that you've cleared the obstruction by: 

If you are a tenant and you receive an obstructed meter letter in the mail, please inform the property owner or your landlord of the notification and the information it contains.