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1. How do I get an application / permit?

Download a copy of the Application For Alarm Permit 2015 (DOCX). Complete it fully, and return it with the required fee to the address on the bottom of the form. You may also call the Alarm Unit at (512)-943-1340 and an application can be emailed, faxed or mailed via USPS, to you. You may stop by the Sheriffs Office and pick up an application. Your alarm permit will be returned to you in the mail. You do not have to post it in a front window, just know where it is in the event you must show proof of permit.

2. How much does a permit cost?

Permits cost $25 for two years and is renewed every other year. A renewal notice is mailed 30 days prior to the permit expiring.

3. How many false alarms are allowed before I am fined and how much is the fine?

Five free false alarms are allowed in a one-year period. The one-year period begins at the time you have your first false alarm. All others are billed at the rate of $75 each, until the one-year period ends. You then begin a second period with another five free false alarms, and the process continues. Your alarm permit can be revoked for non-payment of assessed fines or have more than nine fake alarms in a one year period.

4. If I move or sell my house or business, what do I do?

Contact the Alarm Unit of the Sheriffs Office at 512-943-1340 and tell the administrator the date you will vacate the premises, your new address, and provide the name of the new owner. Be certain you call your alarm company and have the system cut off and removed from your name.

5. Can I leave my alarm permit for the new owner\occupant?

No. The permit is not transferable to another person or address. It must be cancelled and the new owner\occupant must purchase a permit in their name.

6. What do I do when I go on vacation, or I am going to be away from home for an extended period of time?

First, call your alarm company and tell them the dates you will be gone and the name of the person you are leaving in charge of your home. Provide them with all the telephone numbers where that person can be reached. Be sure the person is fully trained on the use of your system and knows the codes to cut off and reset your alarm system.

7. How long can an alarm system sound before I am fined?

Every alarm system must have a 30-minute shut-off feature.

8. What is the procedure for apartment complexes with security systems pre-wired in each unit?

First, the lease manager or owner of the apartments must purchase a permit for the lease office and common areas. Each occupant who desires to use the security system in their individually leased unit must first purchase a security (alarm) permit. You are subject to all the same rules and responsibilities as a homeowner.

9. What is a false alarm?

According to the Williamson County Resolution, a false alarm is any officer response call to your home and the officer finds no evidence or situation requiring law enforcement, fire, or medical emergency response personnel. There is no evidence of an attempted crime, crime in progress, or crime that has just occurred. There is no fire. No one needs medical attention. It does not matter what caused the signal or who caused the alarm to occur.

A false alarm can be caused by numerous things. Examples are:

• Visitors, real estate agents, contractors, cleaning crews, or simple error
• Doors and windows left ajar or unlocked
• Animals inside the premises and the sensors are too low or too sensitive
• Mail dropped through a mail-drop slot
• Power outages coupled with improper battery back-up system
• Telephone line problems
• Overly-sensitive system that activates when persons rattle a door or window
• Drapes or balloons blowing in the breeze or air conditioner vent
• Errors by alarm monitoring service