Knowledge Base

If you are the owner of an operational burglary, fire, or multi-purpose alarm system in the City of Pittsburgh, you are required to obtain a yearly alarm permit from the Department of Public Safety. All residential homes and commercial businesses are required to renew this permit annually. Every year a new renewal form will be mailed to you a month before your permit’s expiration date.

 More info can be found here.

Why do I need this permit?

• In 1992, an ordinance (Ord. 54-1991) was passed by City Council and put into law to cut down on the false alarm calls received by the Police Department. When a Police Officer responds to a false alarm call, it takes time away from responding to real alarm calls. Requiring this permit helps prevent these false calls.