# 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.

## § 6-1 Definitions.

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

(a) In this subtitle, the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Alarm system” means a burglary or robbery alarm system.

(c) “Audible alarm system” means any alarm system with an audible annunciator, such as a horn, bell, or siren.

(d)

  (1) “Public nuisance alarm” means an audible alarm system that sounds continuously for more than 15 minutes.

  (2) “Public nuisance alarm” does not include an audible alarm system installed in a motor vehicle.

*History: Ord. 97-211*

*History: Ord. 02-329*

*History: Ord. 22-125*

## § 6-2 Public nuisance alarm prohibited.

Balt., Md., Code art. 19, § 6-2 (2026)

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*

## § 6-3 Procedures.

Balt., Md., Code art. 19, § 6-3 (2026)

(a) 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.

(b)

  (1) If the notification attempt fails, the Commissioner may request from a court of appropriate jurisdiction an order to enter and abate the nuisance.

  (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.

  (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.

*History: Ord. 97-211*

## § 6-4 Penalties.

Balt., Md., Code art. 19, § 6-4 (2026)

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*