A franchise or right to occupy or use the streets, highways, bridges, or public places in a city may not be granted, renewed, or extended except by ordinance. A franchise or grant for interurban or street railways, gasworks or waterworks, electric light or power plants, heating plants, telegraph or telephone systems, or other public service utilities or renewal or extension of the franchise or grant within the city must be authorized or approved by a majority of the electors voting on the issue at an election conducted in accordance with Title 13, chapter 1, part 4.
§ 7-3-4223, MCA