§5–201.

    (a)    A public service company may not exercise a franchise granted by law except to the extent authorized by the Commission.

    (b)    A public service company may not exercise a franchise unless it files with the Commission:

        (1)    a certified copy of its charter; and

        (2)    a statement by its president and secretary, signed under oath, that the appropriate local authorities have provided the required consent for the exercise of the franchise.