(A) All new or existing utility lines fronting on-site development/redevelopment, other than transmission lines, shall be placed underground in conjunction with a development/redevelopment project (other than an existing detached, single-family dwelling) that has been submitted for approval under the provisions of the Show Low City Code. This requirement shall also apply to primary distribution lines and all communication lines, including those underbuilt on transmission poles. If there is a deferment or a waiver, new aerial communication lines, including upgraded replacement lines, will not be allowed to be underbuilt on existing utility poles, except for communication lines installed on transmission poles in the static neutral position. The required underground placement shall be completed prior to approval and occupancy of the project.

(B) The (re)developer or owner of a (re)development project shall be responsible to make necessary arrangements with the affected utility companies for the installation of required underground facilities, including arrangements for the payment of any cost, as one (1) of the conditions of plan approval. Nothing contained herein is intended to obligate a providing utility company to install such underground facilities without reimbursement except where the utility company is acting as a (re)developer.

(C) In those instances where poles to be removed include street lights, the street lights will be replaced with freestanding poles and luminaires by the (re)developer in accordance with the approved street light standards or agreements with the serving utility.

(D) Where utility lines are to be installed, said lines shall be installed underground where existing utilities are already underground. Previously installed lines shall be placed underground in concert with utilities at the time the facilities are placed underground. No additional poles or longer poles will be permitted in the streets or public right-of-way for any new aerial lines. If the utility company installs aerial lines on existing poles as provided herein, the utility company shall bury its lines if such poles are removed and not replaced in kind. The underground requirement shall also apply to all situations where utility companies plan a new or upgraded system that results in more conductors or lines on a pole. Individual pole-mounted equipment shall not be considered an upgrade, such as transformers, switches, splice cases, and capacitor banks. The cost for underground placement is to be borne by the affected utility company. If there is a deferment or a waiver, all new aerial communication lines, including upgraded replacement lines, will not be allowed to be underbuilt on existing utility poles except for lines installed in the static neutral position.

(E) The underground requirement shall apply to all situations where a governmental agency is acting as a (re)developer or has initiated a construction effort which requires the relocation of existing overhead utility lines. Nothing contained herein is intended to obligate a providing utility company to install such underground facilities without reimbursement from the governmental agency for any costs exceeding existing obligations of the utility company.

(F) Where utility lines are required to be placed underground due to a combination of needs generated by (re)development, utility system upgrade, and governmental improvement projects, there shall be an equitable sharing of the cost of underground placement.

(G) The underground requirement shall not apply to the normal maintenance or repair of existing utility poles and lines. Replacement poles shall not be higher than the existing poles, with the exception of a wood pole being replaced with a steel pole that is closest in height of the wood pole. Temporary overhead line installations used to facilitate construction projects, maintenance activities, or emergency restoration of power and communications will be allowed subject to approval of the public works director.

(H) The underground requirements shall apply regardless of the existence of easements for overhead lines.

(I) Equipment appurtenant to the underground facilities, such as surface-mounted transformers, pull boxes, pedestal cabinets, service terminals, telephone splice closures, concealed ducts, or other similar on-the-ground facilities normally used with or as part of an underground utility system, may be maintained above ground. The city maintains the right to approve the location and appearance of all surface-mounted communication equipment.

(J) The underground requirements of this chapter shall not apply to electrical transmission lines.

(K) To prevent unnecessary disruption and damage to streets, rights-of-way, and other property, the installation of lines shall be accomplished concurrently in new subdivisions, using the same trench as other communication, electric, and other permanent services to structures. (Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 12-4-18. 1976 Code § 18-6-3)