What is a False Alarm?

Greensboro City Code Section 18-26 states that a false alarm is any alarm signal that solicits police response and to which the responding officer finds no evidence of unauthorized intrusion, attempted unauthorized intrusion, robbery or attempted robbery.

False Alarms
  • Negligently activated signals which are the result of faulty or malfunctioning equipment
  • Signals activated to test the alarm systems that have not been approved by the Greensboro Police Department
  • Signals which are purposely activated to summon police personnel in non-emergency situations
Other Alarms
Sometimes police officers are called upon to respond to alarm calls that cannot be legitimately classified as either Valid or False and therefore should be placed in the “Other" category. Classification in this category includes but is not limited to:
  • Alarms activated as a direct result of a vehicle accident
  • Acts of nature (fallen power lines, storm damage, etc.)
An electrical storm would not in itself be sufficient cause to justify this category. Alarms activated by birds or animals would not be classified in this category as this is in the control of the property owner to secure the premises and prevent the occurrence.

Duress, Medical & Panic Alarms
The Alarm Ordinance does not address these alarms. The officer responding to these types of calls determines at the time whether it is a Valid or False alarm. The determination is listed on the officer’s alarm report.

Automobile
Automobile alarms are not covered in the City ordinance and do not apply.