Notice of intention to break up highways

26. Before the Water Commission open or break up any road, street, sewer, drain, or tunnel, they shall give to the persons under whose control or management the same may be, or to their clerk, inspector, or other officer, notice in writing under the hand of an officer of the Water Commission of their intention to open or to break up the same, not less than three clear days before beginning such work, except in cases of emergency arising from defects in any of the pipes or other works, and then so soon as is possible after the beginning of the work, or the necessity for the same shall have arisen.