For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ALARM SYSTEM. A detection device or an assembly of equipment or devices arranged to signal the presence of a hazard requiring urgent attention and to which police officers and/or Fire Department personnel are expected to respond. The term ALARM SYSTEM shall encompass burglar alarms and fire alarms. However, alarm systems on motor vehicles shall be excluded from the definition and operation of this chapter unless the motor vehicle alarm is connected to an alarm system at the premises owned and/or leased by the user. Also excluded are internal alarm systems designed solely to alert or signal persons within the premises. If such an internal system, however, also employs an audible signal emitting sounds or a flashing light or beacon designed to signal persons outside the premises such an ALARM SYSTEM is within the provisions of this chapter.
ALARM USER. Any person, firm, or corporation who is the owner, and any person, firm, or corporation who is a lessee of said owner, of premises in which an alarm system as defined in this section is installed and maintained.
BURGLAR ALARM. An alarm within the definition of alarm system in this section which is designed to detect an unwarranted intrusion into a premises or an attempted robbery or other violent act at a premises. The term BURGLAR ALARM includes the terms AUTOMATIC HOLD-UP ALARM, INTRUSION ALARM, DISTURBANCE ALARM, PANIC ALARM, ROBBERY ALARM, HOLD-UP ALARM, and LOCAL ALARM.
FALSE ALARM. Activation of an alarm system through mistake, mechanical failure, malfunction, improper installation, lack of prudent maintenance, or through the negligence of the occupant of the residence and/or building in which the alarm system is located, including their employees or agents. FALSE ALARM shall also mean any activation of an alarm system which indicates a crime or situation other than that which it was designated to indicate, or in the case of fire alarm, any condition not resulting from a fire or potential hazard. An intruder alarm triggered by an animal from the outside of the building where the alarm is located shall constitute a FALSE ALARM.
FIRE ALARM. An alarm system within the definition of alarm system in this section which is designed to detect and provide warning of a fire emergency, including local alarms. Smoke detectors or other internal fire suppression equipment designed to monitor products of combustion and temperature rise and, at a predetermined measurement, discharge fire extinguishing substances are excluded from the definition and coverage under this chapter. If, however, such smoke detectors or fire suppression devices are connected to or are part of a system designed to signal persons outside the premises in which such detection equipment is located that a fire hazard exists on said premises then such internal detection and suppression equipment is within this definition.
LOCAL ALARM. An alarm system within the definition of alarm system in this section which employs audible signals designed to alert persons outside the premises in which the alarm system is located.
(Prior Code, § 90.01) (Ord. D-665, passed 9-8-1964, effective 11-1-1964; Ord. D-1681, passed 12-21-1992, effective 12-31-1992; Ord. D-1906, passed 12-3-2001, effective 12-13-2001)