7.13.24 – Pasadena Now
City officials aim to reduce unnecessary police responses and improve public safety
The City of Pasadena rolled out new slightly higher fees on July 1 for false alarms at local businesses and homes.
Earlier this year, the City partnered with Central Square Corporation to streamline permitting and billing processes. The move came as the city experiences thousands of false alarm calls annually.
In 2022 and 2023, the Pasadena Police Department responded to approximately 4,800 and 4,300 false alarm incidents respectively. These included unintentional activations, system malfunctions, and other types of false alarms.
Under the new program, Central Square Corporation will use its proprietary software, CryWolf, to handle alarm permitting, billing, and appeals.
The company will also manage false alarm notifications and collections for the city.
“The new software service will improve the reliability of alarms, and the readiness of public safety resources to better serve the community,” a city statement said.
The program aims to encourage proper maintenance of alarm systems by users and companies.
Pasadena Municipal Code requires residents and businesses with installed alarm systems to purchase an annual permit from the city. Permits cover a one-year period, expire on February 1st each year, and fees are prorated based on the application date.
As of July 1, 2024, new alarm fees took effect. The permit for operating an alarm system now costs $37.27, while the penalty for operating without a permit is $155.00.
Fees are adjusted annually on July 1st.
The first false alarm within a 12-month billing cycle, which runs from January 1st to December 31st, incurs no charge. However, subsequent false alarms will result in a $171.00 fee for each occurrence.
If an activation occurs without a valid permit, both a permit fee and a non-waivable penalty fee will be assessed. City officials emphasize that effectively processing false alarm fees helps reduce unnecessary responses and allows police resources to focus on actual emergencies.
The alarm permit is applicable for both businesses and residences. Residents and business owners can purchase or renew permits through the CryWolf Services website or by calling (626) 744-7998. For general questions, the Department of Finance’s Accounts Receivable office can be reached at (626) 744-4291.