Home security systems are an effective way to help protect your property, your family, and your peace of mind. The Woodstock Police Service responds to all alarm calls, including false alarms that may occur accidentally.
To ensure accurate records and efficient response, all alarm systems must be registered with the Woodstock Police Service. Registration is accepted only from alarm companies on behalf of their customers.
Alarm Procedure
Each alarm system within the City of Woodstock that requires a police response must be registered with the Woodstock Police Service by the Alarm Company.
Registration and Payment
- Alarm registration fees are collected by the Alarm Company on behalf of their clients, unless otherwise approved by the Alarm Coordinator.
- Payments can be made by debit or cheque.
- Debit payments are accepted in person during business hours (Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.).
- Cheques can be mailed to:
Woodstock Police Service
615 Dundas Street
Woodstock, Ontario N4S 1E1
Attention: Alarm Coordinator
Annual Renewal
- All alarm registrations must be renewed and paid for by February 28 of each year by the Alarm Company.
- A list of registered alarm subscribers and permit numbers will be provided annually to the Alarm Company.
Fee Schedule
- $50.00 – All alarm-monitored residential and business premises
- $50.00 – All alarm-monitored objects on business premises (e.g., A.T.M.)
- $50.00 – All new alarm registrations throughout the year
Each annual registration includes four (4) at-fault false alarms per calendar year at no additional charge.
Unregistered Alarms and False Alarm Fees
- Failure to register an alarm subscriber will result in a $50.00 fee for residential premises and a $100.00 fee for business premises, invoiced to the Alarm Company (unless the premise was entered or deemed suspicious).
- Each unregistered alarm call will incur the same fee per occurrence.
- After four (4) at-fault false alarms in a calendar year, the 5th and subsequent false alarms will be billed at $50.00 each for the remainder of the year.
Definitions
Alarm Company
A person or corporation engaged in installing or maintaining alarm systems.
Alarm Subscriber
Any person or business who owns, rents, or occupies a premise where an alarm system is installed and pays an Alarm Company for monitoring services.
Unregistered Subscriber
A person or business with an alarm system that has not been registered with the Woodstock Police Service.
Alarm System
A device that, when activated, transmits a signal or message to an Alarm Company.
Valid Alarm
An alarm activated for the purpose intended (e.g., attempted or completed criminal offence, or an emergency situation).
At-Fault False Alarm
Activation of an alarm system where, in the opinion of the Alarm Coordinator, no emergency or evidence of criminal activity exists. This includes:
- Testing or activating an alarm without prior notice or approval from the Officer in Charge.
- Alarms resulting from mechanical failure, improper installation, or negligence by the Alarm Company, installer, or subscriber.
Register a New Customer
Alarm companies can easily register new customers using the online form below.
To register:
- Submit the form online.
- Follow-up with the Records Department to arrange payment.
The alarm system will not be registered until payment is received. Payment can be made by credit card by contacting the Alarm Coordinator at (519) 421-2800 ext. 52252.