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Why This Program Exists

False fire alarms require emergency responders to respond when no fire or emergency is present. These responses divert fire crews from real emergencies and increase costs for the community. LPFD’s False Alarm Reduction Program encourages proper alarm system maintenance and responsible use to reduce unnecessary activations.

What Is a False Fire Alarm?

A false fire alarm occurs when a fire alarm system activates and the Fire Department responds, but no fire, smoke, or emergency hazard exists.

False alarms do not include alarms caused by actual smoke, fire, or other hazardous conditions—even if the situation is quickly controlled.

What Properties Are Included?

  • Included: Commercial buildings and multi-family properties (apartments and condominiums)
  • Excluded: Single-family homes and duplexes

Multi-family buildings are classified as commercial for false alarm response purposes.

Common Causes of False Alarms

  • Alarm system malfunction or poor maintenance
  • Construction or renovation work without proper precautions
  • Unauthorized or improper alarm system testing
  • Accidental or intentional misuse of manual pull stations
  • Repeated activations caused by cooking smoke, steam, or dust

How the Program Works

  • LPFD tracks false alarms over a rolling 90-day period.
  • Mitigation begins at three (3) false alarms within 90 days.
  • Once billing begins, each additional false alarm may be charged.
  • Billing continues until the property remains free of false alarms for at least 90 consecutive days.

Fees

False alarm fees are established by each city’s adopted fee schedule.

Fee per false alarm for third and subsequent false alarms
City Fee per False Alarm (3rd & Subsequent)
Livermore $860.00
Pleasanton $544.00

Fees are authorized by City Council resolutions and billed in accordance with local ordinances.

How to Avoid False Alarms

  • Schedule regular alarm system maintenance with a qualified technician.
  • Notify your alarm company and LPFD before system testing.
  • Protect smoke detectors during construction, painting, or cleaning.
  • Train staff and residents on proper alarm system use.

Billing and Payment

False alarm invoices are issued by the Cities of Livermore and Pleasanton in coordination with LPFD’s Fire Prevention Bureau. Unpaid fees may result in collection actions or permit delays until resolved.

Questions or Assistance?

Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department
Fire Prevention Bureau – False Alarm Program
Phone: (925) 454-2361
Email: info@lpfire.org