Maryland § 9-609
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 9-609, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 9-609.
(a) This section does not apply:
(1) to alarm systems activated by weather conditions or causes beyond the control of the alarm user;
(2) in Frederick County if regulations are adopted under § 12–806 of the Local Government Article providing for the registration of alarm system contractors and alarm users, the issuance of civil citations, and penalties for a violation of a regulation;
(3) in Calvert County if the Board of County Commissioners of Calvert County adopts regulations under § 12–806 of the Local Government Article providing for the registration of alarm system contractors and alarm users, the issuance of civil citations, and penalties for a violation of a regulation; or
(4) in Washington County if the Board of County Commissioners of Washington County adopts regulations under § 12–806 of the Local Government Article providing for the registration of alarm system contractors and alarm users, the issuance of civil citations, and penalties for a violation of a regulation.
(b) An alarm system that is activated more than once within a 12–hour period when a premises with an alarm system is unoccupied and that is not in response to an actual emergency situation or threatened suggested criminal activity constitutes one false alarm if:
(1) access to the building is provided to the alarm system contractor; and
(2) an alarm system contractor or an employee of an alarm system contractor responds to the activated alarm system.
(c) (1) A law enforcement unit or fire department may issue a civil citation to an alarm user for the negligent or accidental activation of an alarm system as a result of faulty, malfunctioning, or improperly installed or maintained equipment or for a false alarm if the number of activations or false alarms to which the law enforcement unit or fire department responds exceeds:
(i) three responses within a 30–day period; or
(ii) eight responses within a 12–month period.
(2) A civil citation issued under this section shall assess a penalty of $30 for each negligent or accidental activation or false alarm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 9-609
What does Maryland Code § 9-609 cover?
Section 9-609 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 9-609?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 9-609" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 9-609 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.