False Alarm Fees  

The City’s False Alarm Fees are outsourced and managed by CryWolf (CentralSquare). False Alarm Fees are charged after three or more false alarms within a calendar year which is excessive and constitutes a public nuisance. 

Pay False Alarm Fees Online 

Click here to pay False Alarm Fees online 

False Alarm Fee Rates 

• Rates: $0.00 first two false alarms (warnings only) 
  • $50.00 third false alarm 
  • $75.00 fourth false alarm 
  • $100.00 fifth false alarm 
  • $125.00 sixth false alarm 
  • $175.00 seventh false alarm 
  • $250.00 eighth false alarm 
  • $350.00 ninth false alarm 
  • $500.00 tenth false alarm (and each in excess of ten) 

False Alarm Fees Governing Legislation* 

For detailed legislative information on the Admission Tax, please refer to the following: 

• Code of Richmond: Article III. - Burglar Alarms 

* Please note, this list may not be exhaustive of all sections of governing code 

False Alarm Fees Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

What is a false alarm? 
The Richmond Alarm Ordinance defines a false alarm as, “Any alarm signal communicated to the division of emergency communications which is not in response to an actual or threatened hazard. False alarms include negligently or accidentally activated signals; signals which are activated as the result of faulty, malfunctioning or improperly installed or maintained equipment; and signals which are purposefully activated to summon police and/or fire in nonemergency situations.”  

How can I pay False Alarm Fees? 
All False Alarm Fees can be paid by check and mailed in for processing. As an added convenience, web payments can be made online with any major credit card through CryWolf. Payments for false alarms are no longer be taken in person at City Hall or other locations. 

Where can I learn false alarm prevention tips? 
Please see CryWolf’s Richmond False Alarm Reduction Program False Alarm Prevention Tips. 

Can False Alarm Fees be appealed? 
Yes, please see CryWolf’s Richmond False Alarm Reduction Program Guidelines to Appeal.  

If you have a question, comment, or concern regarding City of Richmond False Alarm Fees, please contact CryWolf at (877) 893-5276 or click here to visit the CryWolf’s City of Richmond Prevention and Administration Site.