Medford, Ore., Looks to Update Security Alarm Ordinance

Oct. 11, 2005
High number of repeat false alarms leads to proposal for registration fee increase and fines for repeat offenders

Medford, Ore., is considering updating the town's alarm ordinance following a high number of responses to false alarms. On Oct. 6, the town's city council approved to look into an ordinance change that would enact a fee for false burglar alarms.

As part of the ordinance update, registration fees would jump from $13 per year to $30, and fines would implemented at the following schedule: first is free; second costs $50; third costs $100; fourth costs $200. Upon the fifth false alarm, the alarm permit for the offending system would be suspended, requiring a $400 reinstatement fee.

As it stands now, the city will be scheduling a public hearing on the changes. The public hearing will be held as part of an upcoming city council meeting, the date of which has not been announced.