For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ALARM SYSTEM. Any electronic or mechanical device transmitting an alarm signal outside the location intended to alert law enforcement personnel to an actual or attempted unauthorized entry into a building or to the commission or attempted commission of a crime and/or to alert fire personnel of a fire. The definition shall include, but not be limited to, silent, audible, and direct telephone dialer alarms.
ALARM SYSTEM BUSINESS. Any person, firm, association, partnership, group of persons, or corporation which installs, services, or responds to electrical, electronic, or mechanical alarms, signal devices, burglar alarms, television camera, or still cameras used to detect burglary, breaking or entering, intrusion, shoplifting, pilferage, vandalism, fire, or theft for a fee or other valuable consideration. Provided, however, it shall not include a business which merely sells or manufactures alarm systems unless such business services, installs, monitors, or responds to alarm systems at the protected premises. This definition does not include a person employed regularly and exclusively as an employee by one employer in connection with the business affairs of such an employer. Provided further, the regulation of ALARM SYSTEM BUSINESSES shall not include installation, servicing, or responding to any alarm system or device which is installed in a motor vehicle, aircraft, or boat.
ALARM USER. Any person, firm, association, or corporation of any kind in control of any building, structure, or facility wherein an alarm system which is intended to transmit message to the Sheriff’s Department is installed, operated, and maintained.
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS. The Board of Commissioners of the County of Harnett.
COMMUNICATIONS CENTER. That area, room, or space designated or set aside by the Sheriff for the purpose of answering telephones, monitoring alarms, dispatching of emergency vehicles whether fire, police, sheriff, rescue, or civil defense personnel.
COUNTY. The County of Harnett.
FALSE ALARM. An alarm signal indicating that an entry or other crime was committed or attempted when, in fact, evidence indicates, upon inspection after response to the alarm, that the alarm was activated through the alarm user’s negligence or equipment malfunction within the control of the alarm user or alarm business operator. An alarm signal caused by conditions of nature, such as storms, tornados, hurricanes, or other extraordinary circumstances not reasonably subject to control by the alarm user or alarm business operator shall not be deemed a FALSE ALARM. An alarm signal transmitted during testing procedures approved in advance by the communications center or a designee of the center shall not be deemed a FALSE ALARM.
SHERIFF. The Sheriff of Harnett County or any designated person acting in his or her behalf.
SPECIAL TRUNKLINE. A telephone line leading into the Sheriff’s Department’s communications center having the primary purpose of receiving alarm signals or messages.
TELEPHONE COMPANY. A utility that furnishes service within the geographical boundaries of the county.
(Ord. passed 7-7-1981)