Automatic Fire Alarms are essential to both lives and property. However, false alarms are time consuming and tax the resources of the local fire departments. The following are examples of False Fire Alarms:

• Doing Maintenance on System without Proper Notification
• Unknown Reason for Activation
• Improper installation
• Malfunction/Defective Components
• False Call/Malicious Activation

In accordance with Harford County Code Section 84, a $100 fine will be assessed in the event of two (2) false alarms within a rolling twelve (12) month period. In addition a Notice of Defective Alarm will be issued and the State Fire Marshall's Office will be notified.

In the event of a third (3) false alarm within a rolling twelve (12) month period, a $500 fine will be assessed. If four (4) or more false alarms occur within a twelve (12) month rolling period, a $1000 fine will be assessed for each occurrence.

Due to the fact that a defective alarm system is continuing to be in use, a $200 fine may also be assessed for everyday since the third (3) false alarm occurred.

Upon receiving a Notice of Defective Alarm System, the user must have the alarm system inspected within thirty (30) days and send a written report to the Emergency Operations Center within fifteen (15) days of the inspection. The report must include the results of the inspection, description of probable cause and actions taken to prevent future incidents.

Reports should be mailed to:

Harford County Division of Emergency Operations
Attn: Fire Alarm Coordinator
2220 Ady Road
Forest Hill, Maryland 21050

*If you or an authorized service contractor is performing maintenance on your alarm system, it is your responsibility to contact Harford County Emergency Communications at 410.638.3400, prior to performing the maintenance.