[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020[1]]
As used in this Subpart, the following words, terms, and phrases shall have the following meanings, unless it is apparent from the context that a different meaning is intended:
ALARM AGENT
A. 
Any person who is self-employed in or employed by an alarm business, either directly or indirectly, whose duties include any of the following: selling, maintaining, leasing, servicing, repairing, altering, replacing, moving, or installing on or in any building, structure or facility any alarm system.
B. 
Exemption: This definition does not include a person who engages in the manufacture or sale of an alarm system from a fixed location and who neither visits the location where the alarm system is to be installed, nor designs the scheme for physical location and installation of the alarm system in a specific location.
ALARM BUSINESS
A. 
Any business operated by any individual, including a person self-employed, partnership, corporation or other entity of selling, leasing, maintaining, servicing, repairing, altering, replacing, moving or installing any alarm system or causing to be sold, leased, maintained, serviced, repaired, altered, replaced, moved or installed any alarm system in or on any building, structure or facility or employing alarm agent(s).
B. 
Exemption: This definition does not include a person who engages in the manufacture or sale of an alarm system from a fixed location and who neither visits the location where the alarm system is to be installed, nor designs the scheme for physical location and installation of the alarm system in a specific location.
ALARM COORDINATOR
The person or persons designated by the Police Department to administer the provisions of this Subpart. The alarm coordinator establishes, implements, and oversees all procedures relating to alarms.
ALARM USER AWARENESS CLASS
A class conducted for the purpose of educating alarm users about the responsible use, operation, and maintenance of alarm systems and the problems created by false alarms.
APPLICANT
Any person, firm, or corporation who or which files an application for an alarm registration as provided in this Subpart.
AUTOMATIC PROTECTION DEVICE (ALARM SYSTEM)
A. 
Any mechanical or electrically operated instrument composed of sensory apparatus and related hardware which is designed or used for the detection of an unauthorized entry into a building, structure or facility or for alerting others of the commission of an unlawful act within a building, structure or facility, or both, and which emits a sound or transmits a signal or message when activated. Automatic protection devices include, but are not limited to, audible alarms, automatic dialing devices, alarms connected directly to communication centers and proprietor alarms. Automatic protection devices may be identified as "APDs."
B. 
Exemption: The following devices shall not be included under the definition of APDs:
(1) 
Devices which are not designed or used to register alarms that are audible, visible, or perceptible outside of the protected building, structure, or facility, such as those systems designed for the detection of equipment malfunctions.
(2) 
Devices which are designed for the notification of a condition of fire and are provided for the evacuation of occupants of industries, institutions and other similar premises or devices designed to signal the flow of water in an automatic fire sprinkler system.
(3) 
Devices which are designed for and installed upon motorized vehicles or trailers.
(4) 
Devices maintained and operated by the West Norriton Township Police Department and used for the detection of unlawful acts.
COMMUNICATION CENTER
Montgomery County Emergency Communications Division and/or other rooms which house auxiliary communication equipment.
FALSE ALARM
An activation of an automatic protection device (APD) signal, necessitating a response by the West Norriton Township Police Department, where an emergency situation does not exist. The term does not include alarms caused by acts of nature or utility service interruptions.
NOTICE
A written notice, given by personal service upon the addressee, or given by United States mail, postage prepaid, addressed to the person to be notified at his last known address, return receipt requested. Service of such notice shall be effective upon the completion of personal service or upon delivery by the United States Postal Service.
PERSON
Any person, firm, partnership, association, corporation, company, or organization of any kind.
POLICE CHIEF
The Chief of Police of the West Norriton Township Police Department, or his designated representative.
POLICE or POLICE DEPARTMENT
The West Norriton Township Police Department.
PROPRIETARY ALARM
Any alarm system which sounds within the protected premises or control center under the supervision of the proprietor of the protected building, structure, or facility. If police response is expected or is a result of that proprietary alarm signal or message, it thereby becomes an APD, as defined in the definition of "automatic protection device" in this section.
REGISTRATION NUMBER
A unique individual number assigned to an alarm user as part of the alarm registration.
RESPONSE ASSESSMENT FEE
A. 
A fee charged for each and every false alarm activation to which the Police Department responds.
B. 
Exemption: No fee shall be charged if:
(1) 
The alarm is received indicating line trouble; or
(2) 
Caused by acts of nature.
SUBSCRIBER (ALARM USER)
A person who has an APD installed on realty in which the subscriber has an interest or who is applying for the installation of an APD.
[1]
Editor's Note: This ordinance also repealed former Part 2, Alarm Systems, adopted by Ord. 509, 3/12/1990, §§ 4-23.1 through 20, as amended by Ord. 524, 12/31/1991.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
Business Registration Required. It is unlawful for any person to engage in, conduct or carry on an alarm business at any time within the limits of the Township of West Norriton without first applying for and receiving an alarm business registration in accordance with the provisions of this Subpart.
B. 
Agent Identification Required. It is unlawful for any person to engage in or conduct business or operate as an alarm agent at any time within the limits of the Township of West Norriton, unless connected with and carrying identification from a business that has been issued a business registration in accordance with the provisions of this Subpart. Agent identification must be carried at all times while engaged in alarm business activities and must be displayed to any police officer upon request.
C. 
Alarm User Registration Required. It is unlawful for any person to use an automatic protection device (alarm system) at any time within the limits of the Township of West Norriton without first applying for and receiving an alarm user registration in accordance with the provisions of this Subpart.
D. 
Suspension or Revocation. It is unlawful for any person to possess and use an automatic protection device (alarm system) requiring a registration under this Subpart or engage in, conduct or operate in a manner requiring registration under this Subpart at any time within the limits of the Township of West Norriton when their privilege to do so has been suspended or revoked in accordance with the provisions of this Subpart.
E. 
Testing Prohibited Without Permission. It is unlawful for any person to conduct any test or demonstration of any automatic protection device designed to make direct connection to the police communications center at any time within the limits of West Norriton Township without first obtaining permission from the Police Department. Such permission is not required where the equipment to be tested or demonstrated is connected to an intermediary and the receipt of the alarm or signal is not relayed to the Police Department by any means.
F. 
Automatic-Dialing Device Prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to install, program, use or interconnect an automatic dialing device programmed to automatically transmit a request for emergency response directly to the West Norriton Township Police Department's communications center via any telephone trunk line.
G. 
A battery-powered (9 volt, 11.2 volt, or similar voltage) audible alarm system whose sole purpose is to notify the occupants of that location of an emergency situation shall be exempt from the permit requirements of this Subpart, if all of the following conditions exist:
(1) 
The alarm is not connected to any mechanical or electrical device that automatically notifies a person or agency outside that location that the alarm system is activated.
(2) 
The audible alarm does not sound outside the location (no external speakers).
(3) 
The internal signal emitted by the audible alarm does not exceed 90 decibels.
(4) 
The internal alarm does not cause undue annoyance or alarm to occupants of adjoining premises.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
An alarm user shall not operate, or cause to be operated, any alarm system without a valid alarm registration. A separate registration is required for each alarm site having a distinct address or business name. A registration fee including a completed alarm registration application shall be received and approved by the alarm coordinator prior to any alarm system activation. A thirty-day grace period shall be granted from the date of all new alarm installations or takeovers between two alarm users, to accommodate the registration application process. Residential alarm users who are age 65 or older and are the primary resident of the property and if no business is conducted in the residence may obtain an alarm registration from the Police Department according to this Subpart without payment of a fee.
B. 
An application for an alarm registration will be in a format as determined by the Police Department. The information required on such forms shall be determined by the alarm coordinator. Registration applicants acknowledge that the police response may be influenced by factors, including, but not limited to, the availability of officers, priority of calls, traffic conditions, weather conditions, emergency conditions, prior alarm history, administrative actions, and staffing levels.
C. 
Owners of local alarm systems are required to adhere to all sections of this Subpart and are subject to all fees, fines, suspensions, penalties, or other requirements that are applicable.
D. 
All fees shall be collected by the alarm coordinator.
E. 
Existing Alarm Systems. Any alarm system that has been installed before the effective date of this Subpart, that is not currently registered with the Township, shall be registered and a registration fee collected by the alarm coordinator.
F. 
New Alarm Systems.
(1) 
An alarm installation company shall not install an APD unless or until the system has been registered.
(2) 
In the case of a self-installed alarm system, it is the responsibility of the property owner to register the alarm with the Township.
(3) 
Failure of an alarm user to submit the registration fee within 30 days after an alarm has been installed shall result in the alarm system being classified as nonregistered and late charges being assessed.
G. 
The issuance of an alarm registration does not create a contract between the Police Department and/or West Norriton Township and any alarm user, alarm installation company, or monitoring company, nor does it create a duty or obligation, either expressed or implied, on the Police Department to respond to any alarm. Any and all liability and consequential damage resulting from the failure of the Police Department to respond to an alarm dispatch request is hereby disclaimed and full governmental immunity as provided by law is retained. By applying for an alarm registration, the alarm user acknowledges that the Police Department response is influenced by the availability of officers, priority of calls, traffic conditions, weather conditions, emergency conditions, staffing levels, prior response history, and administrative actions.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
An alarm registration for commercial and residential sites shall expire one year from the date of issuance and must be renewed annually by the alarm user. The alarm coordinator shall notify the alarm user of the need to renew their registration 30 days prior to the expiration of the registration. It is the responsibility of the alarm user to submit the updated information and renewal fees prior to the registration expiration date. Failure to renew shall be classified as use of a nonregistered alarm system and subject the alarm site to a suspension and late charge.
B. 
Registration fees shall be collected based on the registration period. The fee for registration permits, previously known as "alarm system permits," shall be $50. The annual license fee shall also be $50. The amount of the registration and renewal fees required may be established by resolution of the Board of Commissioners.
C. 
Alarm users who fail to make payment for an alarm registration prior to the registration's expiration date will be assessed a late charge as established by resolution of the Board of Commissioners.
D. 
No refund of a registration or renewal fee will be made.
E. 
Upon receipt of a completed alarm registration application form and the alarm registration fee, the alarm coordinator shall issue a registration number or registration renewal to the applicant unless:
(1) 
The applicant has failed to pay any fee or fine assessed under this Subpart; or
(2) 
An alarm registration for the alarm site has been suspended, and the condition for the suspension has not been corrected; or
(3) 
Any false statement of a material fact made by an applicant for the purpose of obtaining an alarm registration shall be sufficient cause for refusal to issue an alarm registration.
F. 
Exemptions From Fees.
(1) 
Government entities, including but not necessarily limited to the Township, county, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, federal, and school districts, must obtain alarm permits for alarm systems on property under their control within the boundaries of the Township, but are exempt from payment of all fees under this Subpart.
(2) 
Residential alarm users who are over 65 or older and are the primary resident of the residence and if no business is conducted in the residence may obtain an alarm registration without payment of a fee. They are not exempted from the alarm response fee.
G. 
The alarm coordinator may assess the alarm user a fine for a false alarm occurring at the alarm user's alarm site. The amount of the fine shall be established by the Board of Commissioners. Notice of the right to appeal under this Subpart will be included with notice of any fine.
H. 
All alarm fees are due within 30 days of written notice unless otherwise noted. A late charge in an amount established by resolution of the Board of Commissioners shall be imposed for each fee or fine that is not paid within 30 days.
I. 
The alarm coordinator may waive the false alarm fine for the first chargeable false alarm during each of a residential alarm user's one-year registration period, pending the successful completion of the online alarm user awareness class available through the alarm coordinator. In order to have the fine waived, the alarm user shall have successfully completed the class within 30 days of the fine notice. Alarm users without online access may request the online school and test be mailed to them. Commercial alarm users are not eligible for the alarm user awareness class.
J. 
Alarm users who have obtained a valid alarm registration prior to a false alarm activation are granted a thirty-day grace period from the initial date of registration for familiarization and/or adjustment of a mechanical malfunction of the alarm system, during which time the false alarm activation will not be conducted, nor a fine assessed. This only applies to new alarm system installations or new alarm user takeover conversions.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
Any registration may be suspended by the Chief of Police for any of the following reasons:
(1) 
The violation of any of the provisions of this Subpart.
(2) 
The failure to comply with rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this Subpart.
(3) 
There is a false statement of a material fact in the registration application.
(4) 
The alarm user has had four or more false alarms within the one-year registration period, except that the alarm coordinator may waive a suspension of a registration upon receipt of documentation showing reasonable attempts to address the issue resulting in the false alarms.
(5) 
The alarm user fails or refuses to pay an alarm registration or renewal fee, false alarm fine, late charge, or any other fee, fine or charge assessed under this Subpart.
(6) 
Where any alarm business official is convicted of a crime which reflects unfavorably upon his/her fitness to be in the alarm business.
B. 
It is a violation of this section for a person to operate an alarm system during the period in which the alarm registration is suspended.
C. 
In addition to the false alarm response fee, a supplemental fine shall be imposed on a person operating a suspended alarm system. The fee for a false alarm is $100 each for the first, second and third false alarms in a calendar year and $200 for each additional false alarm per calendar year. The amount of the false alarm response fee and the supplemental fine may be established by resolution of the Board of Commissioners.
D. 
An alarm user whose registration has been suspended may obtain reinstatement of the registration by the alarm coordinator if the user:
(1) 
Pays a reinstatement fee as established by the Board of Commissioners;
(2) 
Pays, or otherwise resolves, all outstanding fees, fines, and other charges;
(3) 
Submits a written notice from an alarm installation company stating that the alarm system has been inspected and repaired (if necessary) by the alarm installation company; and
(4) 
The alarm user successfully completes an alarm user awareness class and test.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
An alarm registration cannot be transferred to another person or alarm site. An alarm user shall inform the alarm coordinator and their alarm company of any change to the information listed on the alarm registration application within the business days after such change.
B. 
Exceptions may be made in the discretion of the alarm coordinator when the transfer proposed is among members of the family of the original registration holder or successors in interest to the property for which the alarm registration has been issued.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
An alarm user shall:
(1) 
Maintain the alarm site and the alarm system in a manner that will minimize or eliminate false alarms.
(2) 
Make every reasonable effort to arrive at the alarms system's location within 30 minutes after being requested by the monitoring company or police in order to:
(a) 
Deactivate an alarm system;
(b) 
Provide access to the alarm site; and/or
(c) 
Provide alternative security for the alarm site.
(3) 
Provide the monitoring company with the updated names and phone numbers of at least two persons who are able and have agreed to:
(a) 
Receive notification of an alarm system activation at any time;
(b) 
Respond to the alarm site at any time; and
(c) 
Provide access to the alarm site and deactivate the alarm system if necessary.
(4) 
Not activate the alarm system for any reason other than an occurrence of an event that the alarm system was intended to report.
(5) 
Notify their monitoring company of any suspension of police response (as provided for under this Subpart) and request the monitoring company not make a burglar alarm dispatch.
B. 
No person shall operate or cause to be operated any automatic voice dialer which, when activated, uses a telephone device or attachment to automatically dial a telephone line leading into the Police Department or the Township and then transmit any prerecorded signal.
C. 
An alarm user shall keep a set of written operating instructions for each alarm system at each alarm site.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
No alarm system shall emit a sound resembling an emergency vehicle siren or civil defense warning. The Chief of Police shall make the final determination regarding any question of an audible alarm within this section.
B. 
After the effective date of this Subpart, no one shall install, modify, or repair an alarm system in West Norriton Township that has a siren, bell, or other signal that is audible from any property adjacent to the alarm site that sounds for longer than 15 consecutive minutes after the alarm is activated, or that repeats the fifteen-minute audible cycle more than two consecutive times during a single armed period.
C. 
In the event that an audible alarm is activated and fails to reset itself or continues to activate for more than 60 minutes and the responsible person listed on the alarm registration or other responsible person cannot or will not respond and silence the alarm, and the continued activation of the alarm is creating a disturbance, the Police Department may cause the alarm to be silenced in a manner determined appropriate for the circumstances. The alarm user shall be held responsible for the actual costs involved to abate the malfunctioning alarm up to a maximum of $300. The Township, its employees or agents shall not be responsible or liable for damage resulting from such disconnection.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
If the alarm coordinator assesses a fee or fine, suspends an alarm registration or denies the issuance, renewal or reinstatement of a registration, the alarm coordinator shall send notice of the action and a statement of the right to appeal to the affected alarm user.
B. 
The alarm user may appeal any action in Subpart A above to the Police Chief or his designee by setting forth in writing the reasons for the appeal and delivering the appeal to the Police Chief or his designee within 20 days after receipt of notice of the action. Failure to deliver the appeal within that time period is a waiver of the right to appeal.
C. 
The procedure for an appeal to the Police Chief or his designee is as follows:
(1) 
The alarm user shall file a written request for appeal by paying an appeal fee and setting forth the reasons for the appeal. The appeal must be entitled "Appeal from Alarm Coordinator's Action." The appeal fee shall be in an amount established by the Board of Commissioners and will be returned to the appealing party if the appeal is successful.
(2) 
The Police Chief or his designee shall conduct a hearing on the appeal within 30 days after the receipt of the request for appeal and appeal fee and shall consider the evidence submitted by the appealing party and the alarm coordinator. The Police Chief or his designee must base the decision on the preponderance of the evidence presented at the hearing and must render a decision within 15 days after the date of the hearing. The decision shall affirm or reverse the decision or action taken by the alarm coordinator.
(3) 
The filing of an appeal stays any action by the alarm coordinator to suspend an alarm registration or require the payment of a fee or fine until the appeal process has been exhausted. This provision applies only to the action of the alarm coordinator that is the subject of the appeal. This provision does not operate as a bar to enforcement actions on violations of this section that occur thereafter.
(4) 
The alarm coordinator or the Police Chief may adjust the count of false alarms or assessed fees based on the occurrence of multiple alarms within a twenty-four-hour period, which may be considered as one false alarm if the alarm user has taken corrective action, unless the false alarms are directly caused by the alarm user.
(5) 
The alarm coordinator or the Police Chief may waive all or part of a false alarm fine due to extenuating circumstances or to encourage corrective action.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The information furnished and secured pursuant to this Subpart shall be confidential in character and shall not be subject to public inspections and shall be kept so that the contents thereof shall not be known except to persons charged with the administration of this Subpart.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
This Subpart shall be known as the "Fire Alarm Ordinance of West Norriton Township."
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
This Subpart shall regulate all matters concerning the design, installation, repair, testing, monitoring, maintenance and operation of all fire alarm systems and related devices; fixing fees and regulations pertaining to the licensing of fire alarm contractors; and prescribing penalties for violations hereof.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The high incidence of false fire alarms and/or alarm malfunctions causes a significant misuse of the manpower and resources of the Jefferson Fire Company No. 1 (JFC) by causing the dispatch of units to the scene of a false alarm or alarm malfunction which renders them out of service and unavailable to respond to legitimate emergency situations. This Subpart shall be construed to secure its expressed intent which is to insure public safety, health, and welfare by controlling the design of, testing of, repair of, installation of, and maintenance requirements of fire alarm systems installed and operating within West Norriton Township; thereby, reducing the service demands on the JFC and improving the safety to the public.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The provisions of this Subpart shall apply to all matters affecting or relating to fire alarm systems and fire alarm contractors and shall apply equally to new and existing buildings and conditions. This includes all required and nonrequired fire alarm systems.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The West Norriton Township Board of Commissioners hereby provides for determination of matters not provided for herein by authorizing certain actions by the Director of Code Compliance.
A. 
Administrative orders may be issued by the Director of Code Compliance to clarify ordinance questions and to establish departmental policy where no specific criteria exists, or where administrative guidance is needed to establish a methodology to resolve recurring problems.
B. 
Standard design bulletins will be issued where Code criteria leave a specific aspect of the design installation to the judgment of the Director of Code Compliance or the authority having jurisdiction. They will set specific design criteria where necessary.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The continuation of use of a fire alarm system or the designing, installation, testing, repair and maintenance of fire alarm systems by any person(s), firm, or corporation contrary to the provisions of this Subpart shall be deemed a violation and subject to the fees and penalties prescribed in this Subpart. Each day that an unlawful use or practice continues shall be deemed to be a separate offense.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
When the provisions herein are more restrictive than other regulations, this Subpart shall control, but, in any case, the most rigid requirements of any other applicable code or regulation shall apply whenever a conflict exists.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
The standards referenced in this Subpart and those listed in the appendixes of any building or fire codes as adopted or amended by West Norriton Township shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this Subpart. Where differences occur between provisions of this Subpart and other standards, the provisions of this Subpart shall apply.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
All newly installed required fire alarm systems shall be certificated by UL or FM as required in the National Fire Alarm Code, also known as "National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72," referenced herein.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this Subpart, have the meanings in this section.
B. 
Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular.
C. 
Terms Defined in Other Codes. Where terms are not defined in this Subpart and are defined in the building, fire, mechanical and electrical codes or bound to other applicable codes, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes as adopted by West Norriton Township. Definitions found in NFPA standards for fire protection and electrical installations shall apply in this Subpart, when not otherwise specifically defined.
D. 
Terms Not Defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
E. 
Specific Definitions. As used in this Subpart, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
AGENT
Any person who shall have charge, care, or control of any building as representative of the owner, including an executor, executrix, coordinator, administratrix, trustee or guardian of the estate of the owner. Any such person representing the actual owner shall comply with the provisions of this code to the same extent as if that person were the owner.
ALARM
Any audible or visible signal indicating existence of a fire or emergency that requires response on the part of the JFC. Included in this are the alarm devices by which fire and emergency signals are received.
ALARM MALFUNCTION
The activation of any alarm which results in the response of the JFC caused by mechanical failure, malfunction, improper installation, or lack of proper maintenance or any other response for which the JFC personnel are unable to gain access to the premises for any reason, or are unable to determine the apparent cause of the alarm activation.
ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE
A fire alarm system component such as a bell, horn, speaker, light, or text display that provides audible, tactile, or visible outputs or any combination thereof.
ALARM VERIFICATION FEATURE
A feature of automatic fire detection and alarm systems to reduce unwanted alarms wherein smoke detectors report alarm conditions for a minimum period of time, or confirm alarm conditions within a given time period, after being automatically reset, in order to be accepted as a valid alarm initiation signal.
APPROVED
Approved by the Director of Code Compliance or his subordinates or designees (code officials).
AUTOMATIC
A device or system providing an emergency function without the necessity for human intervention and activated as a result of a predetermined temperature rise, rate of temperature rise, or combustion particles.
CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR
An approved, listed device which is intended to detect invisible particles of carbon monoxide. This device is not classified as a fire-alarm-initiating device. If carbon monoxide detectors are supervised by a central station, then such alarm shall transmit as a distinct carbon monoxide alarm.
CENTRAL STATION
A supervising station that is listed, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM) for central station service and is approved by the Director of Code Compliance.
CENTRAL STATION SERVICE
A system or group of systems in which the operations of circuits and devices at a protected property are signaled to, recorded in, and supervised from a listed central station (such as UL or FM) having competent and experienced operators who, upon receipt of a signal, take such action as required by NFPA 72 currently in effect or as subsequently amended. Related activities at the protected property such as equipment installation, inspection, maintenance, and runner service are also the responsibility of the central station or a fire alarm contractor. Central station service is controlled and operated by a person, firm, or corporation whose business is the furnishing of such contracted services or whose properties are the protected premises.
CERTIFICATED SYSTEM
A fire alarm system certified by UL or FM. A system installed under such a program is identified by the issuance of a certificate by UL or FM and is designated as a certificated system.
CODE OFFICIALS
The subordinates or designees of the Director of Code Compliance.
DIRECTOR OF CODE COMPLIANCE
The West Norriton Township official charged with the duty of administration and enforcement of codes as adopted by West Norriton Township.
FALSE ALARM (UNWANTED ALARM)
An alarm malfunction or malicious fire alarm as defined herein.
FIRE ALARM AFFIDAVIT
A form for completion by a fire officer when responding to an alarm. Where an alarm malfunction occurs, the fire alarm affidavit of service/repair shall also be completed by a licensed fire alarm company and by the owner/occupant.
FIRE ALARM BOX, MANUAL
A manually operated device used to initiate an alarm signal.
FIRE ALARM SIGNAL
A signal initiated by a fire-alarm-initiating device such as a manual fire alarm box, automatic fire detector, sprinkler water flow switch or other device whose activation is indicative of the presence of a fire or fire signal.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
A system or portion of a combination system consisting of components and circuits arranged to monitor and annunciate the status of the fire alarm or supervisory signal-initiating devices and to initiate the appropriate response to those signals.
HEAT DETECTOR
A fire detector that detects either abnormally high temperature or rate of rise, or both.
INITIATING DEVICE
A system component that originates transmission of a change-of-state condition, such as in the smoke detector, manual fire alarm box, or supervisory switch.
KNOX-BOX®
A secure, tamperproof device with a lock operable only by the Fire Department master key; and containing entry keys and other keys that may be required for access in an emergency.
LISTED
Equipment, materials, products or services included in a list published by an organization acceptable to a code official or the fire code official and concerned with the evaluation of products or services that maintains periodic inspection of products of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services and whose listing states either that the equipment, material, product or service meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specific purpose.
MALICIOUS FIRE ALARM
The activation of any alarm which results in the response of the JFC caused by the negligence or intentional misuse of the system by the owner or his employees, servants or agents; or any other activation not caused by heat, smoke or fire, exclusive of an alarm malfunction. An alarm is not considered a malicious fire alarm if the alarm is activated due to causes beyond the control of the owner.
NONREQUIRED FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
Any fire alarm system not required by this Subpart or by building or fire codes in effect in West Norriton Township.
REQUIRED FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
A fire alarm system required by this Subpart and any building or fire codes in effect in West Norriton Township.
SMOKE DETECTOR
An approved, listed device that senses visible and invisible particles of combustion.
SUPERVISORY SIGNAL
A signal indicating the need of action in connection with the supervision of guard tours, the fire suppression systems or equipment, or the maintenance features of related systems.
TROUBLE SIGNAL
A signal initiated by the fire alarm system or device indicative of a fault in a monitored circuit or component.
WEST NORRITON TOWNSHIP FIRE RESCUE (JFC)
A combination career and volunteer fire rescue system, which provides the primary fire and rescue services within West Norriton Township.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
Fire alarm systems for new buildings or other structures shall be installed as provided in the building, fire, and other applicable codes in effect in West Norriton Township. Permits shall be applied for and obtained as provided in this Subpart.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
Additions or Alterations to or Rehabilitation of Structures. Enclosed additions or interior alterations to, change in use of, or major rehabilitation of any building shall require that existing fire alarm systems shall conform to the requirements for new fire alarm systems as described herein.
B. 
Existing, Nonconforming Systems. Any fire alarm system installed prior to the adoption of this Subpart should be upgraded or improved to provide a minimum level of protection as directed by a code official.
C. 
Existing, Nonrequired Systems. All nonrequired fire alarm systems should provide a minimum level of protection as directed by a code official. All nonrequired fire alarm systems shall be maintained and remain in service unless approval to discontinue the system(s) is received in writing from the Director of Code Compliance. Any approved discontinued systems and related equipment shall be completely removed from the structure so as not to give a false indication that the building, area, or space is protected by a fire alarm system.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
General.
(1) 
All fire alarm systems, devices, and service equipment installed in or on any structure in West Norriton Township shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times. It shall be unlawful for any person(s) to reduce or interfere with the operational effectiveness of a fire alarm system.
(2) 
This requirement shall not prohibit a licensed fire alarm company technician from temporarily reducing or discontinuing the protection where necessary to make tests, repairs, alterations, extensions, or additions. Alterations, extensions, or additions to fire alarm systems require written approval from a code official. The Director of Code Compliance or a code official shall be notified in writing, including facsimile or email, prior to when disconnection and interruption of protection caused by tests, repairs, alterations, extensions or additions are started and upon completion of such work and shall be advised of the extent of and reason for such work. The restoration of the protection shall be accomplished within four hours in sleeping occupancies and within 72 hours in all other occupancies.
B. 
Maintenance.
(1) 
It shall be the duty of the building owner(s) to install, test, repair and maintain the following systems in accordance with the applicable NFPA standard in effect: automatic fire-detection devices (including smoke and heat detectors); fire alarm systems; automatic fire sprinkler systems, including fire pumps and standpipes; automatic fire-suppression systems; central station monitoring, when such systems and/or devices are required by West Norriton Township ordinances.
(2) 
It shall be the duty of a tenant or lessee to maintain all required fire alarm systems and/or related components noted above when so required as part of a written lease agreement or a written maintenance agreement.
C. 
Alarms out of Service (O.O.S.). When the building alarm is out of service while the building is occupied, a fire watch is required to be posted every hour on each floor and one fire guard on the perimeter of the building. The fire watch activity must be logged in and is subject to inspection.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
General. The Director of Code Compliance and the code officials shall enforce all of the provisions of this Subpart and shall act on any question relative to the manner of design, installation, testing, repair, maintenance, materials, equipment, and devices, or any related issues pertaining to fire alarm systems, except as otherwise specifically provided for by statutory requirements or by this Subpart. The Fire Officer is the authorized representative of the JFC in charge at the fire or incident scene.
B. 
Application and Permits. The Department of Code Compliance shall receive applications, plans, specifications, monitoring/supervisory information, permit fees and shall issue permits for the installation of, additions, extensions, or alterations to fire alarm systems. A code official shall inspect the premises for which such permits have been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions of this Subpart.
C. 
Affidavits and Notice of Violations. The Fire Officer in charge of any incident involving a fire alarm system shall be responsible for executing the fire alarm affidavit form and forwarding a copy of all responses to automatic fire alarms to the Department of Code Compliance. Code officials shall issue all necessary notices or orders to correct improper conditions with fire alarm systems to ensure compliance with all code requirements for the health, safety, and general welfare of the public.
D. 
Inspections. The Director of Code Compliance or a code official shall make all required inspections of premises to enforce compliance with the provisions of this Subpart. Inspections shall include, but are not limited to, a final acceptance test.
E. 
Rule-Making Authority. The Director of Code Compliance shall have power as necessary in the interest of public health, safety, and general welfare to adopt and promulgate rules and regulations to interpret and implement the provisions of this Subpart as authorized by the Board of Commissioners of West Norriton Township to secure the intent thereof and to designate requirements applicable because of local climatic or other conditions. Such rules shall not have the effect of waiving structural or fire performance requirements specifically provided for in this Subpart or in building and fire codes as adopted and amended by West Norriton Township.
F. 
Department Records. The Department of Code Compliance shall keep official records of applications received, permits, approvals, and certificates issued, fees collected, reports of inspections, and notices and orders issued, including affidavits issued and received.
G. 
Annual Report. The Director of Code Compliance shall submit an annual report to the West Norriton Township Fire Service Council, regarding automatic fire alarm responses and corrective actions taken by the Department of Code Compliance regarding noncompliant systems.
H. 
Multiple-Tenant Buildings Central Station Service. New and existing multiple-tenant buildings, as determined by the Director of Code Compliance, shall be monitored, and have inspections, testing, maintenance, and runner service provided by one central station service company, which is UL or FM listed.
I. 
Exception. Buildings with an anchor store from which other stores are separated by a code-compliant fire wall or fire barrier may contract with a different central station service company.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
When Permit Is Required. It shall be unlawful to alter or add to existing fire alarm systems or to install a fire alarm system or related components of a fire alarm system for which provision is made or the installation of which is regulated by this Subpart, without first filing the appropriate application, paying the applicable fee, and submitting the required design information with the Department of Code Compliance in writing and obtaining the required permit. Repairs as defined by § 160-26 of this Subpart, which do not involve any violation of this Subpart, shall not require a permit.
B. 
Form of Application. The application for a permit shall be submitted in such form as the Director of Code Compliance prescribes and shall be accompanied by the required fee as prescribed by a resolution of the West Norriton Township Board of Commissioners.
C. 
By Whom Application Is Made. Application for a permit shall be made by an owner or an authorized agent of a fire alarm contractor properly licensed by West Norriton Township to install, extend, repair, and maintain fire alarm systems in West Norriton Township.
D. 
Plans and Specifications.
(1) 
Residential. Plans and specifications are not required to be submitted for one- and two-family dwellings; however, after the application for a permit and fee are submitted, a preliminary inspection shall be scheduled with a code official and the permit applicant for the purpose of determining the locations of smoke detectors, notification appliances, and related equipment devices in the building prior to their installation.
(2) 
Commercial/Industrial/Nonresidential. The permit application, permit fee, and completed fire alarm submittal guide for commercial fire alarm systems (including multiple-family dwellings) shall be submitted. Two copies of plans and specifications shall be submitted. Plans shall be drawn to scale or clearly dimensioned, with sufficient clarity and detail to show the nature and character of work to be performed. When the quality of materials, equipment, or devices is essential for conformity to this Subpart, specific information shall be given to establish such quality. This Subpart shall not be cited, or the terms "legal" or "approved" or their equivalent be used as a substitute for specific information. A code official is permitted to waive the requirement for filing plans when repair work of a minor nature is involved.
E. 
Action on Application. A code official shall examine or cause to be examined all applications and plans for permits within a reasonable time after filing. If the application or plans and specifications do not conform to the requirements of all pertinent laws, the code official shall reject such application in writing, stating the reasons therefor. If the code official is satisfied that the proposed work conforms to the requirements of this Subpart and all laws applicable thereto, the code official shall issue a fire alarm permit.
F. 
Compliance With Code. The fire alarm permit shall be a license to proceed with the work as approved by a code official and shall not be construed as authority to violate, cancel or set aside any of the provisions of this Subpart except as specifically stipulated by modification approved in writing by the Director of Code Compliance.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
License Required to Install, Test, Inspect, Repair, Monitor and Maintain Fire Alarm Systems. All individuals, partnerships, corporations, or other entities engaged in the selling, leasing, maintaining, servicing, repairing, monitoring, altering, replacing, moving or installing any fire alarm system, or causing to be sold, leased, maintained, serviced, repaired, altered, extended, replaced, moved or installed any fire alarm system in or on any building or structure shall make application on a designated form(s) and obtain a valid fire alarm contractor's license from the Department of Code Compliance of West Norriton Township.
(1) 
Exception 1. This does not include a person or firm who engages in the manufacture or sale of an alarm system from a fixed location and who neither visits the location where the alarm system is to be installed, nor designs the scheme for physical location and installation of the alarm system in a specific location. This exception only applies to one-and two-family dwellings.
(2) 
Exception 2. Homeowners of one- or two-family dwellings who perform their own installation of a low-voltage fire alarm system which does not transmit to a central station, or 110-volt fire alarm systems within their dwelling unit, are exempt from the licensing requirements; however, residential fire alarm permits and inspections are required from West Norriton Township.
(3) 
Exception 3. Electrical contractors installing 110-volt smoke detection systems in residential dwellings are exempt from the licensing requirements; however, residential fire alarm permits and inspections are required from West Norriton Township.
B. 
License Fee. Any person making application for a fire alarm contractor license shall pay an annual fee of $80 or by the amount determined by the Board of Commissioners via resolution and included in the West Norriton Township fee schedule. Fees shall be effective from January 1 through the following December 31. Licensing fees shall not be prorated throughout the year. Fees are not refundable should the license be revoked.
C. 
Qualifications of Fire Alarm Contractors for Central Station Service.
(1) 
Any person(s) making application for a fire alarm contractor's license shall demonstrate to the Director of Code Compliance:
(a) 
A knowledge of and proficiency in fire alarm systems, devices and code standards which govern the application, design, installation, testing, repair, maintenance, and operation of fire alarm systems; and
(b) 
Other than fire alarm contractors who install fire alarm systems exclusively in one-family and two-family dwelling occupancies, that they are a fire alarm contractor listed by an established and nationally recognized organization (such as UL or FM), which approves the qualifications of fire alarm service contractors for central station service.
(2) 
Upon successful demonstration of all of the above and payment of applicable fees, a license shall be issued by the Director of Code Compliance.
(3) 
Exception. Fire alarm companies or individuals who install fire alarm systems exclusively in one- and two-family dwellings and which transmit fire alarm signals off-site are not required to be listed for central station service. Such fire alarm systems shall be monitored by a UL- or FM-listed central station. An installing fire alarm company or individual shall complete and sign the West Norriton Township affidavit stating that it or he installs systems only in one- or two-family dwellings.
D. 
Township Right to Suspend or Revoke License. The Director of Code Compliance shall have the right to suspend or revoke a fire alarm contractor's license for cause. Cause for revocation shall include but not be limited to selling and/or installing or maintaining fire alarm systems or devices without obtaining permits, approvals/inspections as required; installing unapproved materials or devices; repeated violations of West Norriton Township codes and ordinances.
E. 
Right to Appeal. Any person(s) having a license suspended, revoked, or denied by the Director of Code Compliance shall have the right to file an appeal to the West Norriton Township Board of Appeals. Any appeal must be based on a claim that the Director of Code Compliance did not use factual information to show cause for revoking or denying the fire alarm contractor's license. Any person who desires to file an appeal shall do so on a form supplied by the Department of Code Compliance within 30 days of receipt of a notice of violation or of any decision by the Director of Code Compliance or a code official.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
When Required. All occupancies, other than single- or two-family dwellings, installing a fire alarm system, having an electronic or radio connection to a central station, shall install an approved Knox-Box® for the premises being protected. Knox-Boxes® shall be approved by the Director of Code Compliance and the West Norriton Township Fire Marshal.
B. 
Existing Installations. Existing facilities with a fire alarm system shall install a Knox-Box®.
C. 
Where Installed. The Knox-Box® shall be installed as follows:
(1) 
At a location approved by the code official;
(2) 
At a height approximately six feet above grade; and
(3) 
To the right side of the main entrance door(s) facing the public roadway.
D. 
Premises Keys. Keys that provide immediate access to the premises and to fire-protection-related equipment shall be identified as to the door they operate and secured in the Knox-Box® within two days of new Knox-Box® installations. The Knox-Box® must contain two sets of keys for every door. Keys shall be inspected periodically by the owner/occupant of the premises to ensure that keys operate all doors necessary for JFC access to the building. The property owner or authorized agent shall be responsible for maintaining two sets of keys in the Knox-Box® which are capable of unlocking entrance, exterior and interior doors in the building(s) and/or tenant space(s).
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
Fire Alarm Activation. The responsibility for a fire alarm activation shall be that of the owner/occupant for whom a fire alarm system is installed. A response to an alarm activation shall result when any Fire Officer or member of the JFC shall be dispatched to the premises where the alarm has been activated or learns of the activation of the alarm system(s), by any means whatsoever, and responds thereto by traveling to that premises. After responding to an alarm activation, the Fire Officer shall notify the responsible party through the Montgomery County Communications Center regarding the activation of the alarm system, and such person shall thereupon travel to the premises to ascertain the status thereof. Failure of the responsible person(s) to appear at said premises within 30 minutes, after being notified to do so, shall constitute a violation, and may result in forcible entry by the JFC and West Norriton Township Police Department personnel. The owner shall bear the cost of repair for any damage incurred during entry and any costs associated with securing the premises to prevent unauthorized entry. The Fire Officer shall serve the owner, authorized representative, or occupant a fire alarm activation report. In a no-response situation by the responsible party, the Fire Officer shall forward the report to the Department of Code Compliance for action.
B. 
Fire Alarm Activation Report. In the event of a fire alarm activation the owner, authorized representative or occupant shall be served a fire alarm activation report by the Fire Officer describing the probable cause of the alarm. The owner, authorized agent or occupant shall sign and return the completed affidavit of service/repair within 15 business days of the said fire alarm activation which can verify to the satisfaction of the Director of Code Compliance that the fire alarm system in question has actually been inspected by a licensed fire alarm service company and that a good faith attempt has been made to identify and correct any defect of design, installation or operation of the fire alarm system which was described as the cause of the fire alarm malfunction. Failure to return an affidavit of service/repair within the said fifteen-day period that is satisfactory to the Director of Code Compliance shall constitute a violation.
C. 
Service of Fire Alarm Activation Report and Affidavit of Service/Repair. Service of written notice of fire alarm activation report and affidavit of service/repair shall be accomplished by delivering a copy in person to the responsible party or any agent of the owner or responsible party at the premises or by posting a copy in a conspicuous place at the main entrance door.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
A. 
Notice of Violation. Whenever a code official observes an apparent or actual violation of a provision of this Subpart, the code official shall prepare a written notice of violation describing the condition which requires corrective action. The notice shall specify the violation and time limitations for the required repairs or improvements to be made to the fire alarm system. Failure to comply with the provisions of the notice of violation shall subject the violator to the penalties herein.
B. 
Service of Notice. The written notice of violation of this Subpart shall be served upon the owner, the occupant, an agent of the owner or occupant or any other person responsible for the conditions under violation. Such notice of violation shall be served either by certified mail to the last known post office address, delivered in person, or by delivering it to and leaving it in the possession of any person in charge of or responding to the premises on behalf of the responsible party. Posting a copy in a conspicuous place at the main entrance door shall be deemed the equivalent of personal delivery.
C. 
Legal Action. Nothing herein shall prevent the Director of Code Compliance from filing a civil complaint or a nontraffic citation against a party without issuing a notice of violation where circumstances require prompt action because of a threat to health, safety and welfare or where a fire alarm system is taken out of service or offline without notice to the applicable central station.
D. 
Tampering With Systems. Any person(s) who tampers with or interferes with the effectiveness of any fire alarm system or related component shall be in violation of this Subpart.
E. 
Penalty for Violations.
(1) 
Any person(s), firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this Subpart or failing to comply with any order issued pursuant to any section thereof shall, upon being found guilty of a civil offense, be liable for a fine of not less than $100 or not more than $1,000. Each day that a violation continues shall be deemed to be a separate offense.
(2) 
A false alarm shall not be a violation of this Subpart, but the owner shall be responsible for paying a response fee as set forth below. No response fee shall be assessed for the first three false fire alarms at the same premises responded to by the JFC during each calendar year. Thereafter, the following fees shall be paid by the owner for each false fire alarm responded to by the JFC at the same premises during the calendar year:
Number of False Fire Alarm
Residential
Nonresidential
3rd
$100
$200
4th
$150
$300
5th
$200
$400
6th and above
$300
$500
(3) 
Failure to pay any fee as prescribed herein shall constitute a violation.
F. 
Dispatch Prior to Verification. It shall be a violation of this Subpart for any central station monitoring company or its employees to verify any fire alarm signal received prior to dispatching JFC through Lancaster County Wide Communications. This provision does not apply to one and two-family dwellings.
G. 
Alarm Reset. Once an automatic fire alarm has initiated and caused the response by JFC, it shall be unlawful for any person(s) to reset the alarm panel until the authorization of the Fire Officer has been obtained.
H. 
Fines Collected. All fines and fees collected under this Subpart shall be deposited into the West Norriton Township General Fund.
[Added by Ord. No. 2020-740, 7/14/2020]
Should any fee assessed pursuant to this Subpart remain unpaid in excess of 90 days from the date the charge is billed, the owner shall also be responsible for any collection costs, including attorneys' fees, incurred by West Norriton Township.