For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ALARM. Includes any device which initiates a telephone call and delivers a recorded message to any emergency telephone number assigned to the communications center or by which a third party telephones any emergency telephone number and requests enforcement services on the basis of having received an automatic signal from a subscriber of an alarm service.
ALARM CONTRACTOR. Any person engaged in the business of selling, leasing, installing, maintaining and/or monitoring alarm systems installed on the premises of another for the purpose of protection of the premises.
ALARM SYSTEM. Any electronic or mechanical device which emits any signal (electronic, visible, audible, silent, recorded or otherwise) which is designed, intended or used to detect an unauthorized entry into a building, structure or premises, or to signal an attempted robbery or holdup, or to alert others of the commission of an unlawful act in or around a building, structure or premises.
ALARM USER. Any person owning or leasing an alarm system, or on whose premises an alarm system is maintained for the protection of the premises.
FALSE ALARM. The activation of an alarm system through mechanical or electronic failure, malfunction, improper installation or the negligence of the subscriber, his or her employees or agents, whether or not law enforcement response was cancelled by the alarm user or his or her agent. A FALSE ALARM shall not include an alarm which can reasonably be determined to have been activated by adverse weather conditions, a failure in the electrical power to the alarm, or other condition beyond the control of the alarm user. In addition, an alarm activated during an alarm system testing procedure shall not be considered a FALSE ALARM if the alarm user first notifies and receives permission from the Police Department and/or communications center to test the system. An alarm is false within the meaning of this chapter when, upon inspection by the Chief of Police, evidence indicates that no unauthorized entry, robbery or other crime was committed or attempted in or on the premises which would have activated a properly functioning alarm system.
(1995 Code, § 30-51)