Burglar Alarm Permits

City of Cerritos False Alarm Policy CMO 9.85.050

Burglar alarm systems can provide an early detection method for criminal activity for businesses and homeowners. The systems can be a useful crime deterrent, however, when the systems generate false burglar alarm calls, they can cause a significant drain on police resources.

To deter false alarm calls, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 842 setting a fine structure for multiple false alarm activations.

Provisions of the ordinance include:

An alarm company operator or alarm agent who installs, maintains or repairs any alarm system within the City must obtain a business license from the City
All persons who own, lease, rent or otherwise possess an alarm system must obtain an alarm permit from the City
Any person who maintains a business or personal alarm system, without a permit, and after receiving a notice to obtain a permit fails to apply for one within 15 days, shall be deemed guilty of an infraction
There is no fine for the first three false alarm incidents in any one calendar year
Upon the fourth incident in any one calendar year, a fine of $30 is imposed
Upon the fifth incident in any one calendar year, a fine of $50 is imposed
Every incident occurring after the fifth incident is subject to a fine of $100

As stated above, alarm owners need to obtain a permit from the City at no charge. Permits can also by obtained by calling (562) 916-1266.