Application for installation of a meter shall be made in writing to the City Manager, or the designee of the City Manager, by the owner of the premises or his or her contractor, and shall be accompanied by payment of an amount equal to the cost to the city of the meter and of the installation thereof, as determined by the City Manager, or the designee of the City Manager. The City Manager, or the designee of the City Manager, shall install a meter when the application therefor shall have been approved and the amount of the cost shall have been paid. The meter shall be installed in the service line.