Article

Burglar Alarm Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia

January 24, 2026

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Atlanta requires alarm permits before activation. Georgia mandates state licensing for alarm contractors. False alarm fines start at the 4th occurrence.

Burglar Alarm Permit Requirements in Atlanta, Georgia

Quick Answer: Atlanta requires alarm permits for all monitored burglar alarm systems. Georgia requires state licensing through the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies for alarm contractors. Atlanta enforces strict false alarm ordinances with fees starting after 3 free responses, reaching $150+ for repeat offenders.

Atlanta's alarm regulations require compliance with both city ordinances and Georgia state licensing requirements.

Alarm Permit Requirements

Atlanta Alarm Ordinance

The City of Atlanta requires alarm user permits for all monitored systems:

  • Residential burglar alarms
  • Commercial intrusion systems
  • Panic alarms
  • Hold-up alarms

Permit Application Process

  1. Apply through Atlanta Police Department
  2. Complete alarm permit registration
  3. Provide property and contact information
  4. Submit monitoring company details
  5. Pay permit fee
  6. Obtain permit before activation

False Alarm Ordinance

Atlanta enforces a progressive false alarm policy to reduce unnecessary emergency responses.

False Alarm Fee Structure

False Alarms (Calendar Year)Fee
1-3 false alarmsNo charge
4th false alarm$50
5th false alarm$75
6th false alarm$100
7+ false alarms$150 per occurrence

Excessive False Alarms

Properties with chronic false alarm issues may face:

  • Permit suspension
  • Non-response status
  • Mandatory system inspection

Georgia Licensing Requirements

Georgia requires state licensing for alarm system contractors through the Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies.

License Types

  • Alarm Systems Contractor: Required for companies
  • Alarm Systems Agent: Individual technicians
  • Low Voltage Contractor: Georgia utility contractors board

Requirements

  1. Submit application to Georgia Board
  2. Pass background check
  3. Provide proof of insurance
  4. Pay license fees
  5. Complete continuing education

Installation Requirements

Electrical Permits

Contact Atlanta Building Department for:

  • New electrical circuit installations
  • Hardwired alarm systems
  • Commercial installations

Best Practices

  • Use verification technology where possible
  • Pet-immune sensors for homes with animals
  • Proper door/window contact alignment
  • Comprehensive user training

Fees and Timeline Summary

ItemCostTimeline
Atlanta Alarm Permit$25-50/yearBefore activation
False Alarm Fines$50-150After 3 free responses
GA Alarm License$200-5004-8 weeks
License Renewal$100-250Biennial

Contact Information

Atlanta Police Department - Alarm Unit
Phone: (404) 853-3434
Website: atlantapd.org

Georgia Board of Private Detective and Security Agencies
Phone: (478) 207-2440
Website: sos.ga.gov

Stay Ahead of Permit Activity

Want to know when commercial projects requiring burglar alarm systems hit permits in Atlanta?

LVN Signal monitors permit activity across Georgia and alerts you to opportunities the moment they're filed.

→ Explore LVN Signal

Related Guides

Last updated: January 2025. Requirements change—always confirm with Atlanta Police and the Georgia Board before starting work.

#permits·#georgia·#atlanta·#burglar-alarm·#false-alarm·#licensing

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