§ 5-30.05. Alarm requirements.

(a)

Alarm system user responsibility. It shall be the duty of the alarm user to properly use the alarm system, ensure that all alarm users are instructed in the proper use of the alarm system and are aware of the provisions of this chapter, and to maintain the alarm in proper working order. In addition, the street address for the premises shall be clearly visible.

The alarm system user or designee shall respond to the premises following activation of an alarm at the premises after being requested to do so by the Police Department. The response shall be made within a reasonable time and, in any event, not later than sixty (60) minutes after being requested to do so by the Police Department.

(b)

Audible alarm systems. Every audible alarm installed shall be equipped with a timer that, after alarm activation, automatically silences any external sounding devices within fifteen (15) minutes and resets automatically within thirty (30) minutes of being activated. If an alarm continues to emit sound after forty-five (45) minutes, police or fire personnel may silence the alarm and shall not be liable to the alarm user for any damage to the alarm system caused thereby or for any other matter arising out of silencing the alarm.

(c)

Direct dial alarms. No person shall install or use any device, which, when activated, automatically dials a public telephone line of the City or the Police Department. All automatic telephone dialing system shall dial a private answering service, such as a private alarm dispatch center run by an alarm business.

(d)

Simulated alarms. No person shall install or use any alarm system that emits a sound similar to that of an emergency vehicle, siren or civil defense warning system or activates for any purpose other than detecting an unauthorized entry into a building or facility protected by such alarm system or to signal the presence of a hazard requiring urgent attention.

(e)

Emergency power supply. Alarm systems shall be equipped with an uninterruptible power supply capable of maintaining alarm operation for a period of not less than six (6) hours following the interruption of normal electrical utility service.

(§ 1, Ord. 697, eff. March 1, 1989, as amended by § 1, Ord. 1073, eff. May 16, 2005)