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Home alarm permits and false alarms in Modesto

Modesto's own rules on home alarm permits and false alarms, with the code text for every value.

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Each rule below links to the section of the Modesto Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Modesto's code says

Modesto code What Modesto's code adds
Alarm permit
  • An alarm permit is required
    Applies: Applies to operating, installing or having an alarm system on the premises
    § 3-11.06 · code text
    It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or install, cause to be installed, use, maintain, or possess an alarm system on the premises owned or in the possession or control of such person within the City of Modesto without first having obtained an Alarm User's Permit from the Police Chief of the City of Modesto, as herein specified.
  • An alarm permit is not required
    Applies: Alarm systems that are privately monitored and responded to and not designed to summon public or Modesto Police attention
    § 3-11.06 · code text
    Alarm systems which are not designed to summon public and/or Modesto Police Department attention, but which are privately monitored and responded to, are exempt from this requirement.
When a permit can be revoked
  • The alarm permit may be revoked
    Applies: When the permit holder fails to take corrective measures to prevent false alarms
    § 3-11.10 · code text
    (a) Failure to take corrective measures to prevent false alarms;

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for a home alarm in Modesto?

Modesto's code: An alarm permit is required (Applies to operating, installing or having an alarm system on the premises) (§ 3-11.06); An alarm permit is not required (Alarm systems that are privately monitored and responded to and not designed to summon public or Modesto Police attention) (§ 3-11.06).

General information, not legal advice.

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Ask GoCodebook how Modesto's home alarm permits and false alarms rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

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