Gas pipes or mains within any public right of way or on any public property shall be so maintained as to avoid any leakage therefrom. If a leak exists or occurs, it shall be reported to the owner of such pipe and main, and the leak shall be repaired within twenty-four hours. Any damage to trees, shrubbery or grass resulting from the escape of gas from a pipe or main shall be repaired, and the cost of the work, including the cost of removal and the replacement of any trees, shall be levied against the owner of the pipe or main causing the damage.