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Burglar Alarms

Alarm Permit
An alarm permit process was implemented to ensure that all alarm systems are registered with the City. This provides up-to-date, accurate information for the homeowner, alarm company and key holder(s). The Police Department requires this information to have a better understanding of the number of alarms within the City and have appropriate information available for resolution of alarm related issues. 

If you have just moved to Highland Park or are installing a home alarm system, please obtain an application at the Police Department, Fire Department or on the City’s website by clicking here. Alarm permit applications cannot be submitted by fax or online. 

There is an initial registration fee of $35.00 which is due with your alarm permit application.  An automatic renewal will occur each January with a $25.00 renewal fee.  A renewal invoice will be mailed to you by the City.  Failure to obtain an alarm permit can result in a fine ranging from $5.00 to $500.00.  Alarm permits are non-transferable.

Burglar Alarm System
On January 8, 2007, the City Council passed an ordinance that mandates all alarm companies verify the activated signal to determine whether the burglar alarm signal requires immediate response. Your alarm monitoring company will not wait for the verification process if it receives a panic, duress or hold-up signal. They will dispatch police personnel immediately. If the alarm monitoring company does not receive proper cancellation codes, the Highland Park Police Department will be contacted and emergency personnel will be dispatched to your location. To avoid false burglar alarm activations, review your cancellation policy with your alarm monitoring company.

False Alarm Activation
A false alarm occurs when a security system is activated where there is no emergency – whether it is activated willfully, unintentionally, negligently or inadvertently. It also includes a system that is activated due to mechanical, electrical malfunctions or weather conditions. You must provide an alternate source of power in order to prevent false alarm due to loss of electrical power.  We suggest battery power as an alternate.

A true alarm is when an alarm system is activated by an attempted or actual illegal entry, theft, robbery; or an observable act of vandalism. All tests of telephone lines or equipment on the premises, requires prior notice of the testing or repair to the Highland Park Police Department.   Please call our non-emergency number at 847.432.7730 in advance to let us know that you will be testing your alarm.  

There is no fee for the first two (2) burglar alarm false activations with police response within each calendar year.

After that the following fees result:

3rd False alarm annually $50 each alarm 
4-5 False alarms annually $100 each alarm 
6-7 False alarms annually $150 each alarm 
8-9 False alarms annually $200 each alarm 
10-11 False alarms annually $250 each alarm 
12+ False alarms annually $300 each alarm 

You will receive a letter informing you of the date and time of the activation and the fee schedule imposed by the City of Highland Park. In addition, statements and invoices are mailed on the 15th and 30th of each month.