In an effort to reduce the number of false alarm calls generated by residential and business security alarm systems, a new ‘excessive false alarm’ ordinance is now being enforced.
This process enables the enforcement of amended City Ordinance Chapter 10, Law Enforcement, Article 1 False Security Alarms (2023-0123): https://bit.ly/4cqx4tY
The ordinance states that three or more false alarms at the same location within a year is considered excessive and will include a specified user fee.
Under the Ordinance, a false alarm means ‘the activation of an alarm system when, upon inspection by the police department, there is no evidence of unauthorized entry, robbery, or other such crime was committed or attempted in or on the premises which would have activated a properly functioning alarm.’
There are three main causes of False Alarms:
- User Error
- Installation/Service Errors
- Equipment Failure
Last year, Police Chief W.H. ‘Skip’ Holbrook sought ways to reduce the number of repeat false alarm calls for service across the City while lessening the strain of patrol officers responding to those calls for service. False alarms often divert law enforcement resources from crimes in progress, other emergencies, and routine patrol officer operations.
In 2022, CPD officers responded to more than 11,000 alarm calls — 95% of which were false alarms.
In June 2024, the City of Columbia partnered with CentralSquare False Alarm Solutions and the computer software ‘CryWolf’. The technology tracks, reports, and bills alarm owners for repeat false alarms.
The amended Ordinance does NOT require an alarm registration process but will impose fines for excessive false alarms annually from July 1 – June 30:
- Third through seventh false alarm = $100.00 Per Occurrence
- Eighth and ninth false alarm = $250.00 Per Occurrence
- Tenth or more false alarm = $500.00 Per Occurrence
** No fee will be assessed for weather-related alarm activations **
There is an appeals process.
Currently, all appeals will be submitted to the Office of the City Manager for final determination.
To learn more, visit the City of Columbia’s False Alarm Management Prevention and Administration website: https://www.crywolfservices.com/columbiapolicesc/
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