Two (2) or more buildings on the same lot or on contiguous lots may, by written permission of the public utilities director, be supplied through a water meter, where such premises are owned by the same person and such person becomes responsible for the payment of all bills due the city. Upon a separation in ownership, the person who has been responsible for the payment of all bills due the city shall continue to be responsible for all water service to the buildings of such premises until such time as new applications have been signed by the new owners and separate meters have been installed at the expense of such owner or owners. (Prior code § 49-6-15)