As used in this chapter, the following words and terms shall have the meanings indicated in this section unless it is apparent from the context that a different meaning is intended:
ALARM SYSTEM. Any mechanical or electrical device which is designed or used for the detection of fire; intrusion into a building, structure or facility; or the commission of an unlawful act within a building, structure or facility; and for alerting persons of such an event by means of a local audible alarm or transmission of a signal or message to another location. Alarm systems include, but are not limited to direct-dial telephone devices, audible alarms, and supervised alarms. Devices which are not designed or used to evoke a Police Department or Fire Department response are not included within this definition.
ALARM USER. Any person on whose premises an alarm system is maintained within the city for his or her use, or for the use of his or her agents, employees, representatives, or family.
APPELLANT. A person who files an appeal pursuant to this chapter.
AUDIBLE ALARM. A device designed to notify persons in the immediate vicinity of the protected premises that the alarm has been triggered through the emission of an audible sound.
DIRECT-DIAL DEVICE. A device which is connected to a dial telephone line and, upon activation of an alarm system, automatically dials a predetermined telephone number and transmits a message or signal indicating the need of an emergency response.
FALSE ALARM. An alarm signal which the alarm owner cannot prove was activated by an actual fire in the case of a fire alarm, or by the commission or attempted commission of an unlawful act which the alarm system is designed to detect in the case of a burglar, intrusion or robbery alarm. An alarm system activated by violent conditions of nature or other extraordinary circumstances not reasonably within the control of the alarm user shall not constitute a false alarm.
PERSON. An individual, firm, corporation, association, partnership, individual, organization, or company.
(`83 Code, § 9.47.020) (Ord. 92-17 § 1 (part), 1992)