Plain Text Law

Subtitle 6 – Burglar Alarms - Public Nuisance Alarms

Current through 2026-07-17. Source: City of Balt., Md., Ord. 26-129. Published by the Baltimore City Department of Legislative Reference.

Balt., Md., Code art. 19, § 6-1 (2026)

§ 6-1 Definitions.Copy Citation

(a)In general.
In this subtitle, the following words have the meanings indicated.
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(b)Alarm system.
“Alarm system” means a burglary or robbery alarm system.
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(c)Audible alarm system.
“Audible alarm system” means any alarm system with an audible annunciator, such as a horn, bell, or siren.
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(d)Public nuisance alarm.
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(1)
“Public nuisance alarm” means an audible alarm system that sounds continuously for more than 15 minutes.
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(2)
“Public nuisance alarm” does not include an audible alarm system installed in a motor vehicle.
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History: Ord. 97-211
History: Ord. 02-329
History: Ord. 22-125
Balt., Md., Code art. 19, § 6-2 (2026)

§ 6-2 Public nuisance alarm prohibited.Copy Citation

A person may not allow a public nuisance alarm to be maintained on any property owned or occupied by that person.
History: Ord. 97-211
Balt., Md., Code art. 19, § 6-3 (2026)

§ 6-3 Procedures.Copy Citation

(a)Notice to owner, etc.
Whenever a public nuisance alarm exists, the Police Commissioner shall make a reasonable attempt to notify the person owning, occupying, or leasing the property where the nuisance exists.
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(b)Abatement by court order.
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(1)
If the notification attempt fails, the Commissioner may request from a court of appropriate jurisdiction an order to enter and abate the nuisance.
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(2)
On issuance of the order, the Commissioner may use any reasonable means and enlist any reasonable assistance to enter the property and silence the alarm. The Commissioner shall take reasonable measures to secure the property after entry and abatement are completed.
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(3)
After entering the premises to abate the nuisance, the Commissioner shall leave behind, in a conspicuous place, a notice to the owner, occupant, or lessee advising of the violation of this section, the penalty, and a telephone number to call for further information.
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History: Ord. 97-211
Balt., Md., Code art. 19, § 6-4 (2026)

§ 6-4 Penalties.Copy Citation

A person who violates <cite data-path="|19|§6-2">§ 6-2 of this subtitle</cite> is guilty of a misdemeanor and, on conviction, is subject to a fine of not less than $50 and not more than $500 for each offense.
History: Ord. 97-211
History: Ord. 02-329