A policy is sometimes imposed instructing police not to respond to a particular alarm after a number of false activations. It is reported that most ordinances are effective if properly imposed and enforced. Fines and Service Fees - Most cities levy fines or service fees for false alarms. These fines range from tens to hundreds of dollars per alarm. The effectiveness of fines and fees is hotly debated in many areas.
Supporters argue that fines give the user an incentive to learn and use their systems correctly.
This revenue also supports the agency s efforts to reduce false alarms through education and enforcement. Detractors argue that fines will force the users who cannot afford the heavy fines to turn their systems off. A mechanism, i.e. hearing or alarm board, will also have established to provide the alarm user the opportunity to challenge a particular fine. The 1996 Florida Legislature has recognized this problem and has enacted several State Statues to begin to focus on solutions. Effective January 1, 1997.