(A) Definitions. When used in this section, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below.
FALSE EMERGENCY ALARM. Any signal actuated by an emergency alarm to which the Fire Department responds, and which is not the result of fire or other actual emergency, and not caused by an extraordinary act of nature.
OWNER and/or OPERATOR. A person or persons who resides, owns or operates a residence or business in which an emergency alarm is connected.
(B) Notices and penalties. The following schedule of notices, warnings, penalties, and costs shall be assessed to the owners and/or operators of emergency alarm systems for false emergency alarms transmitted to the Fire Department within any calendar year, beginning with the first false emergency alarm.
(1) First false emergency alarm: Written notification by the Fire Chief informing the owner or operator of the alarm system of the provisions of this section.
(2) Second false emergency alarm: Written warning informing the owner or operator of the alarm system of the provisions of this section and of the occurrence of a second violation.
(3) Third false emergency alarm: A fine of up to $250 plus court costs shall be imposed.
(4) Fourth and subsequent false emergency alarms: For each violation a fine of $500 plus court costs shall be imposed, and the actual costs of such response by the Fire Department, including the costs of equipment, fuel, personnel, administration, and other similar costs, as determined by the Fire Chief, may also be imposed.
(Ord. 2022-29, passed 11-14-2022