Nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed to prevent any person from taking any action necessary for the preservation of life or property when such necessity arises during days or times when the department is closed. In the event that any person takes any action to excavate or cause to be excavated the public right-of-way pursuant to this chapter, such person shall apply for an emergency permit within four hours after the department’s offices are first opened. The applicant for an emergency permit shall submit a written statement of the basis of the emergency action and describe the work performed. (Ord. 3801 § 1, 1997)