A false alarm is any activation of a signal from a burglar or fire alarm system which elicits a response from the Police or Fire-Rescue Department when there is no emergency or actual/threatened criminal activity. This definition includes, without being limited, to: any burglar alarm system activated as a result of weather, negligence, accident, mechanical failure, electrical failure, electrical surge, signals activated intentionally in non-emergency situations, and signals activated where the actual cause of such activation is unknown.

There is a rebuttable presumption that an activated burglar or fire alarm system signal is a false alarm if the responding personnel, after following normal procedures in their response and investigation, find no evidence of unauthorized entry, criminal activity or other emergency.

An activated alarm system signal shall not be considered a false alarm if:

• Police or fire is notified to cancel its response by the alarm user or alarm user's monitoring agent prior to the time emergency personnel arrive on scene.
• The burglar or fire alarm system signal was intentionally activated by an individual based upon a reasonable belief that an emergency or actual or threatened criminal activity requiring immediate response existed.
• The burglar or fire alarm system signal was activated by lightning or other act of nature resulting in an electrical surge. Additionally, the damage must be shown by a written report by a licensed alarm system contractor who conducted an inspection of the system at the premises and personally observed such damage.

Residential:

• Incorrect key pad procedures
• Failure to train other authorized users (i.e. sitters, relatives, children, houseguests, etc.)
• Failure to secure doors and windows before arming your alarm

Commercial:

• Use of incorrect key pad codes
• Failure to train other authorized users (i.e., employees, custodial workers, delivery personnel, etc.)
• Failure to notify your monitoring facility of unscheduled openings or closings (for businesses using a set schedule)
• Failure to update authorized personnel list with your monitoring facility
• Failure to secure doors and windows before arming your alarm

• Improper application or installation of interior motion sensors
• Improper application or installation of outdoor beams
• Improper charging or checking of batteries
• Faulty equipment (i.e., panels, detectors, keypads, etc.)

• Ensure authorized users are familiar with your alarm system's operation
• Secure all doors and windows prior to arming your alarm
• Be aware of changes in the environment (i.e., new animals, design changes, seasonal decorations, plants, etc.) that might have an impact on your alarm
• Notify your monitoring facility of any changes (i.e., houseguests, name changes, new employees, employee terminations, etc.)

Registration fee offsets the cost of administering the program and ensures that the user maintains accurate data in the system for police response to alarm calls. This fee applies to both residences and businesses.

Yes. There is a penalty of $100 for unregistered alarms.

Yes. Appeals can be made to Jeanette Citta at the City of Milton, 678.242.2570.