The charges imposed under this article, and any penalty thereon, shall be a civil debt owing to the City of Los Angeles from the occupants or owner, or both, of each dwelling unit receiving City household refuse collection services, or from any other customer billed as provided in this article. Any customer owing money to the City under the provisions of this article shall be liable in an action brought in the name of the City of Los Angeles in any court of competent jurisdiction for the recovery of such amount, including any penalty imposed under this article.