Thousand Oaks City Council updates false alarm ordinance to enhance public safety

The Thousand Oaks City Council convened on April 29, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the city's false alarm ordinance, a move aimed at enhancing public safety and optimizing police resources. The proposed changes, presented by Revenue Operations Manager Tara Tassada, seek to address the growing issue of false alarms that divert law enforcement from responding to genuine emergencies.

The original ordinance, established in 1986, was designed to mitigate the overwhelming number of false alarms that burden public safety resources. With the police department responding to 1,672 false alarm calls in 2024 alone, the need for an updated approach has become increasingly clear. The revised ordinance emphasizes education and accountability, encouraging alarm users to maintain their systems properly and respond promptly when alarms are triggered.

Key updates to the ordinance include modernized definitions that encompass both residential and commercial alarm systems, allowing for better tracking and enforcement. The city plans to introduce a voluntary educational program for alarm users, similar to traffic school, which would provide training on preventing false alarms and potentially reduce fines for those who complete the program.

Additionally, the ordinance will no longer specify fine amounts, instead allowing the city council to set charges through a master fee resolution. This flexibility aims to streamline the management of fees and ensure they remain aligned with other city charges.

The council unanimously approved the motion to introduce the ordinance, reflecting a proactive approach to public safety that balances education with enforcement. As the city moves forward, the updated ordinance is expected to improve compliance among alarm users and preserve police resources for true emergencies, ultimately benefiting the Thousand Oaks community.