Alarm owners must purchase an alarm permit before they install or use an alarm system (click here for a copy of the alarm ordinance SMC 5-405). The information provided on the permit helps officers respond properly to your alarm. The initial permit fee is $50.00. The permit fee helps pay the costs associated with the Alarm Reduction Program (established to help reduce false alarms within the city). Businesses must renew their permits on an annual basis, and homeowners must renew their permits every three years. The renewal fee is $22.00. The Alarm Reduction Unit mails renewal notices to alarm owners at the end of the year. Renewal fees are due and payable by January 31st.

Click here to complete and print out a copy of the Alarm Permit application.

Adobe Acrobat Reader (available for free at the Adobe web site) is necessary for viewing the Alarm Application PDF.

• Alarm owners with a chronic false alarm problem may be placed on the police department's non-response list.



• Your alarm must have a battery backup system capable of powering the alarm for at least two hours.



• It is unlawful to have an audible alarm that rings for more than 20 minutes or sounds like a police siren.



• Operating an alarm without a permit can result in a fine of $100 for the first violation, $200 for the second violation, and $500 for each additional violation within one year.

If you have any questions or if you would like us to send you an application for an Alarm Permit, please call the Alarm Reduction Unit at (209) 937-8615.

 

(page updated on June 29, 2007)