Alarm Ordinance 3-1 requires alarm permits for all alarm users within Scottsdale city limits. Please use the online address search to confirm that you are in the city limits (zoom out to see city boundary) and not in a Maricopa County Island or a neighboring city.

The Scottsdale City Council adopted an ordinance in 1994 that requires homes and businesses with alarm systems to obtain an annual permit.

Application for an Alarm Permit must be made within ten days of the alarm system becoming operational. Alarm permits issued under this chapter shall be for a period of one (1) year from:

1. The date the alarm/security system was placed into operation; or
2. The date when the alarm user signs the alarm user permit application.

Renewals

Completed applications may be submitted with application fee:

By Mail

ATTN: Alarms
City of Scottsdale
PO Box 1586
Scottsdale, AZ 85252-1586

In Person

City of Scottsdale Business Services
7447 E. Indian School Road, Suite 110
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Online

Customers receiving a billing statement may pay online.

Types of payments accepted

• Cash (in person only)
• Check (payable to City of Scottsdale)
• Credit Card (in person or online only)
• Money Order (payable to City of Scottsdale)

A written request may be filed with Business Services to review service charge grievances within 45 days of an activation. These charges will be reduced or waived if:

• A valid alarm (police report completed)
• An act of God
• A common-cause alarm (series of concurrent alarm activations usually cause by malfunction)
• A certificate of waiver for attending an alarm awareness class

A newly installed alarm system is exempt from service charges for activations that occur within the first 30 days after system installation (if the alarm user has obtained the alarm user permit within the time frame specified).

These requests must be received in writing from the permit holder and can be sent via email or via mail:

ATTN: Alarms
City of Scottsdale
PO Box 1586
Scottsdale, AZ 85252-1586

• Know how to use your alarm system. Your alarm company should provide an orientation and training.
• Know how to use your alarm system. Your alarm company should provide an orientation and training.
• One of the most common causes of false alarms is user error. If you have questions regarding the use of your system, contact your alarm company immediately.
• Know your alarm company’s cancellation procedure. This will prepare you in the event of a false alarm.
• Keep your alarm company updated with changes such as new phone numbers, new/past user information, remodeling timelines, if you are moving, and if you are adding a pet.
• Inspect your system to ensure all door and window sensors are securely attached and the system is working properly.

Download False Alarm FAQ and Training Tips (PDF)

How do I cancel my Alarm Permit?

Alarm Permit cancellations must be received in writing from the permit holder and can be sent via email or via mail:

ATTN: Alarms
City of Scottsdale
PO Box 1586
Scottsdale, AZ 85252-1586
*Please reference the permit number and effective date of the cancellation.

How do I update my Alarm Permit Information?

Updates to mailing address, phone number, alarm company or responsible representatives must be received in writing from the permit holder and can be sent via email or via mail:

ATTN: Alarms
City of Scottsdale
PO Box 1586
Scottsdale, AZ 85252-1586
*Please reference the permit number.

How do I acquire a Alarm Waiver Certificate?

Waiver certificates for activation charges may be obtained by attending an online Alarm User Awareness Class. Certificates are not transferable from person to person or premises to premises. To schedule the class please call 480-312-7400.

What should I do when my alarm goes off accidentally?

Immediately notify your alarm company and have your password/passcode readily available to cancel the alarm. Do not call the Police as they do not know the password/passcode you registered with your alarm company.

What should I do if I receive a false alarm notification, but the alarm was valid?

If your alarm was activated and police responded but did not find any signs of criminal activity, the alarm will be considered false. If you later learn the alarm was valid and a crime occurred, contact Scottsdale Police at 480-312-5000 to file a police report immediately. You can then contact the City of Scottsdale Business Services Department and notify them of the valid alarm and provide the police report number.

What if I received a false alarm notice but my alarm company did not call the Police Department?

Scottsdale Police can verify how they were notified of the alarm. Please contact Scottsdale PD Records Department at 480-312-1999 or visit City of Scottsdale - Records Request to obtain a copy of the report.

What if I received a false alarm notice but did not see the Police at my residence?

If you do not know if the police responded to your false alarm, you can call and verify when Officers arrived and what their findings were. Please contact Scottsdale PD Records Department at 480-312-1999 to obtain a copy of the call for service.