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Noise caused by frequently or continuously sounding burglar alarms and car alarms is a  cause for complaint in East Devon.

If an alarm rings unnecessarily and causes a noise nuisance the council can obtain a magistrates warrant to break into the property to silence the alarm.

If an alarm can be silenced without breaking into a property, the council is, in some circumstances, empowered to do this without obtaining a magistrate's warrant.

We may also recover from the householder any costs incurred in silencing a noisy alarm. We may also prosecute the householder, which can result in a fine of up to £5,000. 

If you have an intruder alarm, or are planning to have one fitted to your property, it is recommended that:

  • You appoint two key-holders who can act in your absence

  • Alarms and key-holders should be registered with the Police

  • The alarm system complies with British Standard 4737

  • The alarm is fitted with a 20 minute cut-out and is regularly maintained by a competent person

When reporting an alarm please note the exact address of the property

Vehicle alarms

The registered keeper of a vehicle must ensure that the alarm has a five minute cut-out device and that the alarm is set to minimise 'false alarms'.  An alarm will have to be deactivated by the council if it is causing a noise nuisance.  Any vehicle which cannot be secured will be towed away.  Full costs will be recovered from the registered keeper. 

When reporting an alarm please note the details of the location, make, model, colour and registration number of the vehicle