In an instance where the call turns out to be a false alarm the City will not charge for the first response in a calendar year. This will allow the alarm owner time to fix any problems with their alarm system.
False Alarms Fee Schedule per Calendar Year (January 1st - December 31st)
(Fees updated 7/1/2010)
| BURGLARY, FIRE ALARM FINE | PANIC/ROBBERY ALARM FINE * | |
|---|---|---|
| 1st false alarm | No charge | $290.00 |
| 2nd false alarm | $190.00 | $435.00 |
| 3rd false alarm | $285.00 | $580.00 |
| 4th false alarm | $380.00 | $580.00 |
| 5th false alarm | $380.00 | $580.00 |
| 6th false alarm | $380.00 | $580.00 |
| 7th false alarm | Police response suspended |
Charges apply to both Residential and Commercial Alarm owners
* Note: There are no free false alarms for Panic and/or Robbery alarms.
The program is designed to give ample chances to Manhattan Beach alarm owners to fix any problems with their alarm system. The people most affected by this program are repeat offenders who do not fix their alarm system.
False Alarm Prevention
- Ensure that all users of your alarm system are properly trained (including babysitters, relatives, housekeepers, new employees, etc.).
- Notify your alarm monitoring company of scheduled repairs or when others will be on the premises.
- Instruct all alarm users on how to cancel an accidentally activated alarm.
- Communicate with your alarm company regularly, advising them of schedule changes, updating emergency contact names and telephone numbers, and discussing problem areas or maintenance needs.
- Restrict pets from areas where your alarm could be activated.
- Provide your alarm company with the names and phone numbers of “responsible parties” who can respond to your premises when the alarm has been activated. “Responsible parties” should be an adult and one, who is able to determine if something is awry.
Common Causes of False Alarms
- Incorrect use of key pad codes.
- Untrained alarm users.
- Unsecured doors and windows.
- Free roaming pets.
- Faulty alarm equipment.
- Improper installation of alarm system.
- Failure to notify the alarm monitoring company of changes (house sitters, employees, special events, construction/remodel, etc.)
Appeals
Administrative Review: If you believe an alarm activation was not a “false” alarm, you can request an Administrative Review by notifying the Manhattan Beach Police Department—Alarm Program (420 15th St, MB 90266) within 5 business days of your alarm activation. Administrative Hearing (MBMC 3.56.110):
If you would like to appeal your false alarm fine, late fee, or penalty assessment, you can request an Administrative Hearing, by notifying the City Clerk (1400 Highland Ave, MB 90266) in writing within 30 days of receipt of the invoice. If the Hearing Officer does not find in your favor, the cost of the hearing ($40) will be burdened by you.