§ 14-155. Nuisance alarms.

(a)

Definitions. The following words, terms, and phrases when used in this section shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Alarm system means any mechanism, equipment or device which is designed to operate automatically or manually to transmit a signal, message or warning of an occurrence which the fire department is expected to respond to.

Nuisance alarm means an alarm that elicited a response from the fire department caused by mechanical failure, malfunction, improper installation or lack of proper maintenance, or an alarm activated by a cause that cannot be determined.

(b)

Nuisance alarm policy.

(1)

If an alarm system generates three more nuisance alarms in a six-month period, the fire chief or his designee shall notify the owner or operator of the premises where the alarm system is installed, in writing, that such alarm system is in violation of the town nuisance alarm policy.

(2)

If at any time during the next six-month period following written notification of violation, the same alarm system generates a nuisance alarm, the owner of the business where the alarm system is installed shall be liable to the town for a civil penalty in the following amounts:

First nuisance alarm: $75.00

Second nuisance alarm: $150.00

Third nuisance alarm: $250.00

Fourth and subsequent: $500.00

(3)

If the owner or operator of the premises is able to demonstrate that an otherwise nuisance alarm may have been triggered by the proper operation of the alarm system equipment, the above penalties may be waived.

(Ord. No. O18-025 , § 1, 8-23-2018)