It shall be unlawful to construct or maintain any opening or stairway in any public street or sidewalk or alley without a permit from the City Council. All such lawfully maintained openings shall be guarded by a suitably strong cover or a railing to the approval of the Director of Maintenance Services. (M.C. 1962, sec. 13.120; amd. Ord. 88-1, 1-4-1988)