The City of Allen City Council adopted its current Alarm Ordinance in 1991 with revisions in 1994, 1998, 2005 and 2008. Revisions to this ordinance are required in order to be in compliance with current State Laws.

Additionally, the proposed ordinance adds a section to better clarify the process that must be taken should an alarm permit be revoked for any reason including excessive false alarms. The appeal process is similar to other ordinances in the how the appeal process would occur. Currently, the City of Allen charges fees for new / renewal alarm permits and other fees associated with alarm systems including false alarms. Most of the fees are set by state laws as it relates to residential permit fees and most false alarm fees. However, commercial alarm fees are not set by state law. The current fee for a new / renewal commercial alarm permit is $50.00 per year.

Staff is recommending that this fee be increased to $100 per year for new / renewal commercial alarm permits which is comparable to other communities in the North Texas Region.  Additionally, state law allows for a fee up to $250.00 to be assessed on persons who operate an alarm without a valid permit as required  by law / ordinance. This fee can be waived if individuals who are subject to this fee register and permit their alarm within 30 days of receiving notice.

Staff recommends that the City Council adopt an ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 8,  Article IV, "Alarm Systems" and adopt a resolution amending and restating alarm permit fees and other fees associated with alarm systems.

I make a motion to adopt Ordinance No. _________________ amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 8,  Article IV, "Alarm Systems" and adopt Resolution No. ____________ amending and restating alarm permit fees and other fees associated with alarm systems.