It shall be deemed unlawful for any person to alter, change, replace or deface in any way any section or any page of this code in such a manner that the meaning of any phrase or provision may be changed or omitted. Said code, while in actual possession of officials and other interested persons, shall be and remain the property of the city and shall be returned to the office of the city clerk when directed so to do by order of the common council. (2009 Code)