Boulder will begin fining businesses, residents up to $450 for false alarms

BOULDER, Colo. – People across the City of Boulder will be fined up to $450 if police have to respond to a false alarm at a home or business.

The move comes after city officials said Boulder police responded to nearly 5,000 alarm calls over a two-year period, with only 10 of those calls deemed legitimate – a false alarm rate of 99.79 percent, according to officials.

The ordinance went into effect Wednesday. 

False alarms are caused by several factors including bad weather, an improper code, power outages, animals and other equipment issues.

Police hope that by implementing this system people and businesses alike will learn how to properly use and maintain their security alarms.

The first instance of a false alarm will not incur a fine, but repeated false alarm calls to police could get you fined from $100 up to $450 after several violations.

Repeat offenders will also home or business added to a “do not respond list,” meaning a Boulder police officer will no longer respond to the location in case an alarm goes off.

Panic or robbery alarms will not be suspended, according to city officials. The ordinance will also no affect fire, carbon monoxide or medical alarms.

All residents and businesses within city limits that have an alarm system are required to register for an annual fee of $35. To register an alarm system, click here. 

Fines will be evaluated starting June 1.