There's a Fine For Too Many False Alarms: Wayland Police

WAYLAND, MA — The Wayland chief is reminding residents and business owners that there's a bylaw in place in town concerning false alarms, and it is a problem.

This false alarm bylaw 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 fine for the fifth and $100 fine for each subsequent false alarm.

In 2016, Wayland officers responded to 654 false alarms, said Chief Irving.

"The department has seen a steady increase in false alarm calls since 2013," he sent in an emailed statement. "Many of these alarms are repeat malfunctions at businesses or private residences. 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."

Beginning January 1, 2017 false alarm calls began again to be tracked by specific address. Fines will be assessed in accordance with the bylaw beginning with the fourth false alarm.

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