Alarm System Registration

Alarm System Registration

Wauwatosa has an alarm registration ordinance that requires residents and businesses to register their alarm systems with the Police Department. This registration applies to all alarm systems.

How it works

Homes and businesses with alarms will need to obtain an annual alarm permit. When obtaining the permit, the owner will be required to register certain information with us:

  • The alarm monitoring company (if there is one)
  • Authorized key holders
  • Phone numbers

This information allows us to easily contact the property owner in the event of an emergency or to verify that all is in order. Another benefit of the annual permit is that the key holder information will be updated each year ensuring that we have accurate contact information.

How to register / obtain an Alarm Permit

Payment may be made only by mail or in-person:
Wauwatosa Police Department
1700 N. 116 St
Wauwatosa, WI 53226

Annual Fees

The fee for the permit is $25 annually. Please note, if you do not register your alarm system, the police will still respond when notified of an alarm. However, understand that failure to register your alarm system with us is a violation of Ordinance 7.08.005, and you may be cited and fined. Additionally, late registrations are subject to a $50 late fee.

False Alarms / False Alarm Fees

Common Causes of False Alarms

  • Untrained system operators
  • Equipment malfunctions
  • Physical facility changes or renovations
  • Hanging displays, helium balloons, or decorations
  • Drafts from HVAC vents, fans, or heaters
  • Pets and small animals

5 Prevention Tips

  1. Ensure all exterior doors and windows are fully closed and secured before leaving.
  2. Keep motion sensors free from balloons, hanging signs, decorations, or moving objects.
  3. Learn how to abort a false alarm quickly with your provider before police dispatch.
  4. Regularly train all staff or family members on proper system operation.
  5.  Contact your alarm provider immediately if you experience arming or disarming errors.

False Alarm Fees

Occurrence Fee
1st Alarm No Charge
2nd – 3rd Alarm $75.00 each
4th – 7th Alarm $150.00 each
8th+ Alarm $450.00 each

If you have any questions, please contact our Records Unit via email, or call at (414) 471-8430.