Frequently Asked Questions about Alarms in the City of Lowell

Does the City of Lowell have an Alarm Ordinance, and what does that mean to me?

Yes, the City Council adopted Chapter 96, titled “Alarm Systems” on 05/02/2006, intended to govern alarm systems which summon public safety personnel, and to reduce false alarms.  If you, one of your tenants, or a business/establishment at a property you own, have a “monitored alarm” which may summon police or fire to a residential or commercial property, you are required as the property owner to ensure that each alarm is registered each calendar year with the City of Lowell for an Alarm Permit*.  If neither you, nor any of the tenants or businesses/establishments at any property you own, have a “monitored alarm” you are not required to register* (though doing so may help us better assist you).

What if I don’t register a “monitored alarm” at a property I own?

Failure to register an alarm on your property may subject you (as the property owner) to a $300 penalty*.

What if I didn’t know I was supposed to register?

REGISTER NOW for only $10 per monitored residential alarm or $15 per monitored commercial alarm; “unmonitored alarm” registration is FREE.  Register by 12/31/09 and the City of Lowell will extend your registration through 12/31/2010, and waive late registration fees as a courtesy*!

How do I register?

Download the Alarm Permit registration form at http://www.lowellma.gov/services/forms/alarmpermit.pdf or contact the Alarm Administrator at (978) 674-1715 for assistance with any comments, questions, or concerns you may have.

* Regardless of registration, all Alarm owners may be subject to additional fines, penalties, and appeal fees per the City Ordinance.