I do. That's why I was trying every possible way to do this using SDR or some other non-noticeable way. FWIW it's not even really attached to the port, because

I do. That's why I was trying every possible way to do this using SDR or some other non-noticeable way. FWIW it's not even really attached to the port, because the port itself is behind the glass, it's just that the IR LED inside the port is visible. So really it's kind of sitting on top of the glass bubble. I also checked the local municipal code (my utility is city-owned) and there doesn't seem to be anything in the code that says I can't do it. That said, I intend to put a notice next to it that says something along the lines of "This is a non-contact measuring device that counts IR pulses. Please call XXX with any questions."