How Much a False Alarm Could Cost You in Lubbock

look, accidents happen all the time, no need to beat yourself up about it. That is, unless that accident resulted in Lubbock PD sending officers to your home since you accidentally set off your security alarm.

If you didn't know, Lubbock cops are not really in the mood for jokes, so, even if it was a complete accident, you still have to pay for wasting their time and resources.

What Is a False Alarm in Lubbock?

In The Hub City, a false alarm is described as an "alarm dispatch request to a law enforcement agency when the responding law enforcement officer finds no evidence of a criminal offense or attempted criminal offense."

In fact, LPD responds to roughly 18,000 alarm-related calls per year, but a whopping 95% are considered false alarms.

What if My Alarm Went Off on Accident While Cleaning?

Great question, and I have bad news. Just because you didn't mean to trip the alarm while you or hired help are clearing those cute little dust bunnies from your home doesn't exempt you from punishment.

This situation would be chalked up to user error since the owner of the home is legally responsible to train anyone who may come in regular contact with the alarm. So, if you're leaving town and your in-laws are house-sitting while you're out, show them how the alarm works! Unless you want to pay the consequences.

Registering Your Lubbock Alarm Systems

All alarm systems in Lubbock should be registered with LPD, though it's not legally required. Those who are obligated to obtain a permit for their alarm system have had their system alert LPD at least three times for false burglary OR one false robbery attempt within 12 months.

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I hope you have some cash laying around, because registration application fees are $50 per home/business. But hey, homeowners over the age of 65 only have to pay 25 bucks.

The penalties for failing to register your security alarm include a citation that you will be charged for every day your home or business is not licensed.

False Alarm Consequences in Lubbock, TX

If LPD responds to five false burglary alarm notifications from one home or business within 12 months, any additional false alarm will result in a $50 fee. After 10 false alarms, LPD can actually revoke the alarm permit due to the unreliability of the owner. The owner can always apply for another permit... for another $50 AND possibly having to sit through an alarm training course.

If LPD responds to two false robbery notifications from any alarm system within 12 months, any additional false notification jumps up to $100 each time.

When Are You Exempt from Penalties?

Exemptions for false alarm penalties include the following:

• Alarms installed inside vehicles
• Fire alarms and medical emergency alarms
• False alarms caused by vandalism, severe weather, or attempted unauthorized entry
• Electrical/mechanical problems with the home/business that the owner is actively seeking to resolve

Always remember that arming your home or business with a security alarm comes with a certain level of responsibility. You should regularly check your alarm to keep it in tip-top condition, especially if you plan being out of the house for a while.