Dirt over the meter does not mean your meter is not being read. It is very common for meter boxes to fill with dirt, leaves and other yard debris. Listed here are some of the many contributing factors to this. Meter boxes are generally slightly lower than ground level and also are typically at lower spots in your yard, so all run-off makes it into the meter box. It is common to clean out your meter box one month only to find the meter covered again the following month. All it takes is a good rain, or watering of the lawn, for dirt from run-off to resettle over your meter. Dirt also can cover the meter as a result of insect or rodent activity or from slamming the meter box lid. Usually when we have reports of meter boxes being full of dirt and debris, the debris is easily cleared away and a meter reading can be taken.
To assist the meter reader, please keep the meter box free of garbage cans, boxes, piles of yard waste, or parked vehicles. Please do not install fences or plant trees or shrubs that restrict access to your meter or they may need to be removed.