HALIFAX/BEAVER BANK: The Halifax Regional Municipality is advising residents that a new false alarm fee structure for security and fire alarm systems will take effect on Tuesday, Sept. 1.
False alarms occur regularly and can divert police officers and firefighters from actual emergencies, creating operational and financial impacts.
The Halifax Regional Municipality recorded approximately 5,200 false alarm incidents in 2025.
The new structure includes:
A $300 flat fee per false alarm for commercial properties and multi-unit residential buildings; and,
A flat fee of $50 per alarm for residential properties with fewer than three units.
ADVERTISEMENT:
Under the previous structure, the first false alarm within a 12‑month period was free, with fees increasing to $200 for the second occurrence, $300 for the third and $500 for each additional false alarm.
By-law B-400, Respecting Burglary, Robbery and Fire Alarm Systems, intends to impose accountability on owners of alarm systems that are activated and result in emergency services responding unnecessarily.
Changes to the by-law attempt to recover some costs incurred by police and fire services when responding to false alarms.
For more information, visit our website.
