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California legal term

Utility service in California Criminal Law

Current through 2026 California legislative session

In California criminal law, “Utility service” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the California criminal code.

What does “Utility service” mean in California criminal law?

“Utility service” means the provision of electricity, gas, water, or any other service provided by the utility for compensation. (Cal. Penal Code § 498)

Statutes defining or using this term

Related terms in the same statutes

This reference is informational and is not legal advice.