As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings
indicated:
ALARM SYSTEM
Any device designed for the detection of an unauthorized entry of
the premises or unlawful acts, and when activated gives a signal, either visual
or audible, or both, or transmits or causes to be transmitted a signal.
CHARGE
An amount assessed a subscriber protected by an alarm system for
a false alarm only.
FALSE ALARM
An alert by an alarm system which, upon investigation, discloses
that no burglary, attempted burglary, breaking and entering, robbery or other
acts for which it is designed to initiate police investigation or action has
occurred. It shall not include alerts caused by power outages, weather conditions
or when the alarm is canceled immediately after being activated by a person
responsible timely calling the 911 Center and giving proper identification
to cancel the police response.
SUBSCRIBER
An owner or lessee of a premises equipped with an alarm system.
Whenever a false alarm is received for a premises served by an alarm
system, the subscriber shall be charged an amount in accordance with the following
schedule:
Charge for False Alarm Received During a Calendar Year
|
---|
False Alarms
|
Charge
|
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Less than 4
|
No charge
|
4 to 10
|
$25
|
11 or more
|
$50
|
The failure of a subscriber to pay a false alarm charge within 30 days
after receipt of a notice to do so shall result in a filing of a citation
before the issuing authority to institute a summary criminal proceeding.
Any person, firm or corporation having an alarm system who violates
any of the provisions of this chapter shall, upon conviction in a summary
proceeding brought before a District Justice under the Pennsylvania Rules
of Criminal Procedure, be guilty of a summary offense and shall be punishable
by a fine of not more than $1,000, plus costs of prosecution. In default of
payment thereof, the defendant may be sentenced to imprisonment for a term
not exceeding 90 days.