Police Reminder: There Are Fines for False Alarms

WAYLAND, MA -- Last year, Wayland police responded to 675 false alarms. Chief Robert Irving is reminding those people with residential or business alarms that there are fines for excessive false alarms.

The town’s bylaw (83-2) establishes the assessment of fines for excessive false alarms in a calendar year. There is a $25 fine for the fourth false alarm and $50.00 fine for the fifth and $100 fine for each subsequent false alarm.

The department has seen a steady increase in false alarm calls since 2013, said the chief.

“Many of these alarms are repeat malfunctions at businesses or private residences,” he said in an announcement. ”False alarms strain the resources of the department and create unnecessary risk to officers and the public as a response is initiated. All malfunctioning alarm systems should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid recurring responses from the police department. Family members and employees should be trained on the operation of the alarm system.”

False alarm calls, since Jan. 1, have been tracked by specific address and warning notices will be sent out to locations upon receipt of the third false alarm in the calendar year. Subsequent alarms will generate fines as described in the bylaw.