Water meters require solar power to turn on

The city is able to read your water meter without opening it up using a technology called Automated Meter Reading (AMR) or Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI).

AMR and AMI technology involves installing a small electronic device on the water meter that automatically collects and transmits meter readings to the utility company. The device may use a variety of communication methods, such as radio waves or cellular networks, to transmit the data.

The benefit of AMR/AMI technology is that it allows for more accurate and timely meter readings, eliminates the need for manual meter reading, and can help to detect leaks or other issues more quickly. Additionally, it can reduce costs and improve efficiency for the utility company.

So, when the city drives by your water meter box, they may be using a mobile device or vehicle equipped with technology to remotely collect meter readings from the electronic device installed on your water meter, without the need to physically access the meter box.