Apply for an Alarm Permit

To obtain a permit, download and return the Alarm Permit Application Form:

Alarm Permit Application Form(PDF, 249KB)

You can fax, mail or email the completed form to us, or if you would like a form to be mailed to you, please call us to request one. Please note that permit applications and payments for new permits, renewed permits or false alarm fines cannot be submitted or paid at any police substation, fire station. 

For gated communities with restricted access entry, the HOA community manager should complete the Gated Community Application Form(PDF, 66KB).

Payment must be made at the time the application is submitted. Payments can be made with a credit or debit card over the phone, by a mailed check, or in person at the Alarm Investigations Office between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Payment can be made by:

  • Cash (in person only)
  • By check or money order made payable to: “City of San Antonio – Alarms Investigation Office”
  • Credit card: Discover, MasterCard, American Express and Visa. 

NOTE: Permit applications and payments for new permits, renewed permits or false alarm fines cannot be submitted or paid at any police substation or fire station. Currently there is no online payment option.

Renewals and Cancellations

Alarm Permits are valid for one year from the issue date and must be renewed before the expiration date. The SAPD Alarms Investigation Office will send a renewal notice 45 days before the expiration date of the current permit. 

To cancel a permit, send a written cancellation notice to the Alarms Investigation Office by email, mail or in person.  

Alarm Permit Fees for New or Annual Renewal

Residential (Fire and Police Permit)

Type of Permit Fee
Residential Alarm $40
Residential Senior 65 Years or Older $30
Residential Alarm Exempt (Ref Ordinance Chapter 25.56) NO FEE

A waiver for residential alarm permits is available to victims of domestic violence. Contact the Alarms Investigation Office for qualifying details. There are currently no discounts or permit fee waiver for disabled veterans or military personnel.

Commercial

Type of Permit Fee
Commercial Alarm - Fire $100
Commercial Alarm - Police $100

NOTE: Separate permits are required for fire and security alarm systems for commercial locations.

Gated Community (HOA Community Manager)

Type of Permit Fee
Gate Permit (One Time) $50