September 11, 2024
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Did you know that failing to register your home alarm system in Memphis could result in fines or delayed emergency responses? As a Memphis resident, ensuring your home’s security often involves more than just installing an alarm system—it requires compliance with city regulations. The Metro Alarm Permit is a crucial part of this process, helping reduce false alarms and ensuring efficient emergency services. In this article, we’ll explain what the Metro Alarm Permit is, how to determine if you need one, and how Frase Protection simplifies the process for you.
What Is the Metro Alarm Permit?
The Metro Alarm Permit is a city-issued license that Memphis residents and business owners must obtain if they use a professionally monitored alarm system. It was introduced to reduce the strain on local law enforcement caused by false alarms. In 2020, 90% of all alarms recorded were false alarms, leading to unnecessary police dispatches and wasted resources. The permit ensures accountability for alarm owners and helps the city manage emergency responses more efficiently.
Do I Need a Metro Alarm Permit?
If you have a professionally monitored alarm system, you likely need a permit—but the determining factor is whether the Memphis Police Department (MPD) responds to your address. This includes both homes and businesses within the city of Memphis and surrounding areas. Even if your address isn’t technically within Memphis city limits, you still need a permit if MPD responds to your alarms. Without a permit, you may face reduced service and additional fees.
Who Needs a Metro Alarm Permit?
- Homeowners with monitored systems
- Businesses with monitored systems
- Anyone installing an alarm system that connects directly to a central monitoring station
The permit isn’t required for unmonitored DIY systems, but it’s a good idea to confirm with the Metro Alarms Office directly by calling (901) 636-6380.
How Frase Protection Handles Your Alarm Permit
Here at Frase Protection, we believe in offering more than just technology—we provide peace of mind. That’s why we take care of the Metro Alarm Permit for customers with monitored accounts as part of our service.
Here’s how we make it easy for you:
- Application Process: Once you become a Frase Protection customer, we handle the application process for your Metro Alarm Permit, ensuring everything is filed accurately and promptly.
- Annual Renewal: Instead of worrying about tracking expiration dates, we handle the yearly renewal. The permit fee is seamlessly included in your monthly bill, so you don’t need to worry about separate payments or paperwork.
- Stay Compliant: By partnering with Frase Protection, you can stay compliant with city regulations, avoid penalties, and ensure your alarm system is always up to date with the proper permits.
False Alarms: What You Need to Know and How to Avoid Them
False alarms can lead to costly fines and wasted emergency response resources. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of false alarms:
- Regular System Maintenance: Schedule regular checks for faulty sensors, batteries, or wiring issues. This ensures your system is functioning properly and reduces the risk of malfunction.
- Educate All Users: Make sure everyone who uses the alarm system—family members, employees, or tenants—knows how to properly arm and disarm it. Mistakes are a common cause of false alarms.
- Secure Windows and Doors: Ensure all windows and doors are fully closed before activating the alarm. Loose windows or doors can trigger motion sensors.
- Adjust Motion Sensors: If you have pets, make sure your system’s motion sensors are calibrated to prevent them from triggering alarms. Many systems offer “pet-friendly” settings.
- Use Entry Delays: Set reasonable entry and exit delay times to prevent rushing and mistakes when arming or disarming the system. This gives you more time to enter your code without triggering the alarm.
By following these simple steps, you can avoid unnecessary false alarms, saving you time, money, and stress. If you do experience a false alarm, Memphis allows one free false alarm annually for permitted systems. After that, fines start to accumulate.
How the Metro Alarm Permit Protects Your Home and Community
Having an active Metro Alarm Permit not only keeps you compliant with city law but also enhances safety across the community. When the city has accurate records of all alarm systems, it enables faster response times from law enforcement, allowing them to prioritize genuine emergencies over false alarms.
By working together, alarm owners, businesses, and city officials create a more efficient response system that benefits everyone, making Memphis a safer place to live.
Stay Protected, Stay Compliant
Having a security system isn’t just about protecting your home or business—it’s about following the proper steps to comply with city regulations. The Metro Alarm Permit is a critical part of that protection. At Frase Protection, we take the stress out of the process by managing your permit application and renewal. Don’t risk penalties or reduced service—let us handle it for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your system is fully compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Metro Alarm Permit
Do I need a permit for a DIY home security system?
You typically don’t need a permit if your system isn’t connected to a professional monitoring station. However, it’s always best to check local regulations to be sure. To get confirmation, email alarmquestions@memphistn.gov.
What happens if I move homes?
When you move, you’ll need to update your permit information or reapply for a new permit at your new address. Frase Protection can assist you with the transition.
Can I appeal false alarm fines?
Yes, the City of Memphis allows residents to appeal fines if they believe a false alarm was caused by extenuating circumstances, such as a technical fault, or if you can prove a crime. To appeal false alarms, email metroalarms@memphistn.gov or call (901) 636-6380.
What are the costs for permits?
- New permits: $30 for residents, $60 for commercial businesses
- Renewals: $10 for residents, $25 for commercial businesses
What is the cost of service for a police false alarm?
$90 per call.
What is the cost of service for a fire false alarm?
$250 per call.
