For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply, unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ALARM SYSTEM. A device or system that emits, transmits, or relays a remote or local audible, visual, or electronic signal indicating an alarm condition and intended to or reasonably expected to summon law enforcement officers of the County Sheriff’s Department (hereinafter “Sheriff”) or fire services. ALARM SYSTEM does not include an alarm installed on a vehicle.
ALARM USER. Any person, property owner, firm, partnership, corporation, or governmental entity whose premises has an alarm system.
FALSE ALARM. Any of the following:
(1) The negligent or unintentional activation of an alarm system by the owner or lessee of an alarm system or by an employee or agent of either;
(2) The activation of an alarm system by mechanical failure or malfunction because of improper maintenance of the alarm system;
(3) The activation of an alarm system because of improper installation and/or use of the equipment;
(4) The intentional activation of an alarm system where no unauthorized entry, commission of an unlawful act, or fire exists;
(5) An alarm shall be presumed false if the law enforcement officers do not locate evidence of intrusion, commission of an unlawful act, or emergency on the premises that might have caused the alarm to sound. When responding law enforcement officers find unsecured doors or windows where there is no evidence of forced entry or other evidence of criminal intent, the alarm is presumed to be false.
(6) FALSE ALARM includes an alarm caused by power outage, but shall not include alarms activated by unusually severe weather conditions or other causes which are identified by the law enforcement officers or Fire Department to be beyond the control of the alarm user.
(Prior Code, § 4.0502) (Ord. 245, passed 7-8-2014)