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| Frequently Asked Questions |
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How many false alarms does Palm Bay have in a year?
4660 in 2002. That is 90 each week - just in Palm Bay! This is a 22% decrease in false alarms reported in 1999, prior to the implementation of the current Alarm Ordinance.
Why is that a problem?
False alarms divert police from crime prevention efforts, disturb neighborhoods, delay police and fire responses to real emergencies and waste taxpayer dollars.
What is the city doing about it?
The City Council passed an alarm system ordinance in August 2000 that requires alarm permit registration, fines for excessive false alarms, and provides for a program of false alarm awareness and education.
Does any other City have a law like this?
Yes, False alarms are a nationally recognized problem and there are alarm system ordinances in most cities across the county. Locally, seven other cities as well as unincorporated Brevard County have alarm system ordinances.
Who has to get an alarm permit?
Anyone who has a residential or business monitored alarm system. As of February 25, 2002, over 3500 alarm systems have been registered.
Why do I have to register? Why the paperwork?
If you have a monitored alarm, you expect police or fire response to your alarm. Our police and firefighters need the information on the permit registration form in order to do their jobs. They particularly need to know how to contact you or your representative in case the worst happens. If your home or business is burglarized or if you have a fire, they need to know who should be called so that your property can be secured from further damage.
What is the permit fee?
The fee is $20.00. Your permit will be valid for 12 months; from October 1 to September 30 every year. If you have had no false alarms during that period, your renewal permit will be free! There is a fine for non-registration, so if you have an alarm system installed, be sure to register your system within 15 working days.
Where can I get a permit application?
Your alarm company is required to give you one at the time of or before installation. You can also get one from:
The False Alarm Reduction Office at the Palm Bay Police Department
Palm Bay Fire Stations
The Palm Bay Library and the DeGroodt Library
ALARM PERMIT REGISTRATION FORM
We had a false alarm at our house last year. If that happened under the new ordinance would I have to pay a fee?
No. We know that accidents happen, so the ordinance allows you two "free" false alarms. After that, fines start at $50.00 for Police response and $200.00 for Fire Department response to your alarm. If you have 6 or more false alarms in one year, or do not pay fines or fees, police response to your general intrusion alarms will be suspended until your system is repaired, you are re-trained in its use, or you pay fines or fees.
What can I do to prevent false alarms?
Make sure that everyone who has a key to your premises knows how to use your alarm system, including how to cancel a false alarm.
Close and lock your doors before you leave your premises.
Restrict your pets to areas without motion detectors.
Check your system’s batteries and have your system serviced annually.
Attend our Alarm User Awareness Class.
TIPS ON PREVENTING A FALSE ALARM!!
What is the Alarm User Awareness Class?
The Alarm User Awareness class is an on-line presentation that explains why false alarms are a problem, shows you how your alarm system works, and how to prevent false alarms. If you take the class, you'll receive a certificate that waives one false alarm fine. Just click on "
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