Your Security Alarm Could Cost You Big Bucks

Your security alarm could cost you big bucks, and you probably don’t even know it! In most municipalities, an alarm permit is required to have a security alarm monitored. An alarm permit is intended to help cut back on false alarms. If you have an alarm system that isn’t permitted, and the police are dispatched to your home, that false alarm comes with a fee. In Houston, Texas, that fee can get up to $300.00 for the first offense. Not only this, but police may refuse to respond to an address with a non-permitted alarm. What if you’re in real danger?

What Type of Permit Do I Need?

The type of alarm system you have will determine the type of permit you need. There are permits for burglary, panic (hold up/robbery) or combined. If your alarm comes with a panic button, you need combined. If the system monitors for only burglary, you only need that permit. If you’re like me, and your home also has monitored smoke detectors, you also need a fire permit. In Houston, this is a completely separate permit. The fine is much higher if the fire department is called out for a false alarm, too.

Where Do I Get An Alarm Permit?

This depends on where you live. Each municipality will have their own permitting department. Be careful when researching permits, and make sure you submit your application to the correct authority. I made the mistake of requesting a permit through Harris County when I live in the City of Houston. Guess what? I wasn’t issued a permit, I didn’t receive a notification or a refund, but we did have a false alarm, and we did get a big fine from the City of Houston (that could not be waived.) If you live in Houston, be sure to get your permit(s) from the City of Houston Burglar Alarm Administration. Whereas, if you live outside the city limits, you might be in unincorporated Harris County, and your permit will be issued by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. If you live in Houston, Texas, and also need a fire permit, you can also obtain this through City of Houston Burglar Alarm Administration.

What Does A False Alarm Cost Me?

If you don’t have a permit, the City of Houston charges $301.04 for a panic alert that turns out to be a false alarm. If it’s a burglary alert instead, the first false alarm only costs $114.03. However, if you have an alarm permit, you get a few free passes in case you mess up and press the wrong button. The City of Houston waives penalty fees for up to 3 burglar alerts and 1 panic alert. Of course, if you know your security pass code, you can avoid the police being dispatched all together. Don’t forget about the fee if Houston Fire Department is dispatched for a fire alarm that turns out to be false – it’s $402.55 per occurrence! 

Do you have questions about alarm permits? I learned the hard way and am pretty sure I can help you Feel free to reach out with questions below.