“False Alarm" means the activation of an alarm system when, upon inspection by the city, evidence indicates that no unauthorized entry, robbery, or other such crime was committed or attempted in or at the alarm location which would have activated a properly functioning alarm system. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a false alarm shall neither include an alarm activated by unusually violent conditions of nature nor an alarm which is cancelled before police personnel respond to the alarm location. Multiple alarms caused by a single technical malfunction in single alarm system for a period up to 12 hours shall constitute only one false alarm. Each 12-hour period shall constitute a new violation.
Residential / Commercial
False alarm activations within a rolling 365 days:
First False Alarm $0.00
Second False Alarm $100.00
Third False Alarm $200.00
Fourth False Alarm $300.00
Fifth and Over False Alarm $450.00
$100.00 penalty fee for unregistered alarm systems
Guidelines To Appeal The City of Boulder's Alarm Ordinance defines a false alarm as: “the activation of an alarm system when, upon inspection by the city, evidence indicates that no unauthorized entry, robbery, or other such crime was committed or attempted in or at the alarm location which would have activated a properly functioning alarm system. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a false alarm shall neither include an alarm activated by unusually violent conditions of nature nor an alarm which is canceled before police personnel respond to the alarm location. Multiple alarms caused by a single technical malfunction in single alarm system for a period up to 12 hours shall constitute only one false alarm. Each 12-hour period shall constitute a new violation.”
Appeal Process: The Alarm User may appeal an assessment of a false alarm fine to the Alarm Administrator by setting forth in writing the reasons for the appeal within thirty (30) days of the notice date. The Alarm Administrator will render a decision in writing. Be sure to include the following with your appeal:
● Your name ● Your email address (if applicable) ● The alarm location ● Date of the false alarm ● Your permit number ● Reasons for the appeal ● Any supporting evidence
Appeals must be sent via email to boulderco@citysupport.org or
via the US Mail to: Boulder False Alarm Reduction Program PO Box 19936 Boulder, CO 80308
The alarm user may file a written request within 7 days of the appeal denial notification via email to boulderco@citysupport.org or the US Mail to: Boulder False Alarm Reduction Program: PO Box 19936 Boulder, CO 80308. Hearings may be conducted through submission of written material or in-person.
Appeals are not generally granted as a result of the following:
1. Faulty, defective or malfunctioning equipment supplied by an alarm business.
2. Improper installation or maintenance by an alarm business.
3. Improper monitoring by an alarm business.
4. Alarm activations that occur while alarm technicians are repairing or servicing the alarm system.
5. An occurrence where no evidence of criminal activity, fire, or medical need is present.
6. Mistakes made by private contractors, maids, cleaning crews, visitors, etc.
7. Item(s) within the home or business that move causing motion detectors to activate (i.e. curtains, signs, balloons, etc.).
8. Doors and/or windows that become loose and cause a break in the contacts that activate the alarm system.
9. Caretakers who watch homes or businesses when owners are away and who activate the alarm in error or are not familiar with required codes or passwords.
10. Pets, rodents or wildlife movement in or near the home or business.
11. Alarms caused by Apartment Management Employees.
In the case of items 1 and 2 above, if you suspect the false alarm was due to faulty equipment or improper installation contact your alarm company. In such cases, the system should be inspected and repaired where necessary.
* This list is only intended as a guide to assist you in deciding whether to appeal a false alarm or contact your alarm company for discussion. This list is not intended to cover every situation where an appeal may be denied.