Frequently Asked Questions
The ordinance was enacted over 20 years ago to deal with the problems of repeat false alarms and the lack of emergency contact information from alarm owners.
Yes, they are. Across the nation, the growth of alarm system ownership has resulted in a tremendous number of false alarms. The response of false alarms has created an additional burden on law enforcement agencies. Nationwide, over 98% percent of all burglar alarms police respond too are false alarms.
The alarm ordinance is posted on this website - Ordinance No. 711 & 828 Chapter 18, Article IV
It is also callable from public record here
Everyone operating an intrusion detection alarm system inside the city limits is required to register their alarm system.
Please complete the online registration form
You may also contact the Belmont Police Department - Alarm Program at 888-865-9770 (Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm PT)
New Standard System Permit (audible alarm only or audible or silent with alarm company monitoring): $60.00
New Smart System Alarm Permit (enhanced features such as: email/text alerts, remote web/mobile access): $30.00
Standard System Annual Renewal: $60.00
Standard System Annual Renewal: $30.00
"False alarm" means the activation of an alarm system through mechanical failure, accident, misoperation, malfunction, misuse, or the negligence of either the alarm user, operator or agent, or any of their employees or agents. False alarms shall not include alarms caused by acts of God, the malfunction of telephone or electrical lines, circuits or other causes which are beyond the control of the alarm user, operator or agent.
False alarms are accumulated during the permit year:
1st false alarm - No Fine
2nd false alarm - No Fine
3rd false alarm - $125
4th false alarm - $225
5+ false alarms - $525/each
No, you will never be charged for an alarm activation that is not false.
A false alarm is defined in the ordinance as the activation of an alarm system when, upon observation by law enforcement, there is no evidence of unauthorized entry, robbery, or other such crime attempted in or on the premises.
Yes, you can pay for any fees due on your account via this website by clicking on the home tab and logging in with credentials initiated by CitySupport and secured by the alarm user.
Belmont Police Department - Alarm Unit
P.O. Box 456
Belmont, CA 94002
Please contact us via email and let us know the date alarm service was cancelled and with which alarm company.
*Submit a written request/statement as to why you feel the charge and/or occurrence should be waived or removed from your account, along with any supporting documentation (police reports, alarm company documentation, etc.)
*Submit via email using the Contact Us page.
*Be sure to include Permit License #, alarm location address, and incident date(s) in question.
*Submit within fifteen (15) calendar days of the notice imposing the charge.