Des Moines Police Department Alarm Permit Program
Alarm Permit Program
The Des Moines Police Department is proud to partner with PMAM to manage the City’s alarm permit and false alarm reduction program. PMAM provides a secure and easy-to-use online system for residents and businesses to register alarm systems, update contact information, and manage billing related to false alarms.
All monitored alarm systems in the City of Des Moines must be registered.
Operating an alarm system without a permit will result in a $200 penalty, in addition to any applicable false alarm fines.
Why Register Your Alarm
Registering your alarm system helps the Police Department:
• Quickly contact owners or keyholders when an alarm activates
• Maintain accurate alarm location and contact information
• Reduce unnecessary police responses to false alarms
• Improve response efficiency for real emergencies
False alarms place a significant demand on police resources and can delay responses to real emergencies. Proper registration and maintenance of your alarm system helps keep officers available when they are needed most.
False Alarm Fee Schedule
False alarm fees apply when officers respond to an alarm activation and no emergency or criminal activity is found.
In some cases, the fee may be the actual cost of police response, as determined by the Chief of Police or their designee.