The purpose of this ordinance is to reduce or eliminate the incidence of false alarms.
False alarms constitute a hazard to police officers and the general public.
The Arcata Police Department receives and responds to approximately 450 false alarms each year, many at the same location. This high incidence of false alarms results in substantial costs incurred to the City of Arcata, and the ability of the police department to respond to valid alarms and other emergencies is reduced. This ordinance shall not apply to alarm systems affixed to automobiles, boats, or recreational vehicles. Any person operating an alarm system within the City of Arcata without an Alarm Permit as required by this ordinance or under a revoked permit shall be punished pursuant to Title I of the Arcata Municipal Code. Revocation of alarm system permit may be appealed to the City Manager or designated representative.