Frequently Asked Questions

You can apply online through the City’s alarm permit portal: https://www.cityalarmpermit.us/Pages/Home.html?CityId=4uhprxE31cM=

An alarm system is any device or system designed to summon police or law enforcement in the event of a burglary, robbery, or similar emergency.

•  It can be manual (activated by a person) or automatic.

• Exclusions:
  • Car alarms
  • Local-only alarms that sound only inside the building
  • Alarms installed by the federal, state, or local government

• Visit the Alarm Permit Portal and select the "Apply for Permit and Pay Online" option.
• If you have already registered your alarm system, have your permit number ready,  and select the "Pay Your Bill Now Credit Payment" option to renew.
  • If your alarm permit number is not on file with PM AM, you will need to register as a new customer. 
• Call PM AM Customer Service: 866-552-9032 if you have any questions regarding your alarm permit number.

Yes. A permit is required if you operate a burglar, robbery/hold-up, or fire alarm system in Bellaire.

The property owner or person in control of the property is responsible for obtaining and maintaining the permit. Alarm companies themselves do not need permits.

Operating an alarm system without a valid permit is a violation of city ordinance. The person in control of the property may be subject to prosecution and could face fines or other enforcement actions.

If you purchased a security alarm permit within the past year, please contact PMAM at 1-866-552-9032 to inform them and avoid being charged an additional permit fee.

No. Standalone carbon monoxide detectors and local smoke alarms (that only sound inside your home and don’t notify police or fire) do not require a permit.

Yes. One permit cannot cover all alarm types.

• Burglar/Fire/Medical alarms = 1 permit
• Hold-up alarms = 1 permit

If you have more than one alarm of the same type on the same premises, you can usually cover them under a single permit.

• The first 3 false alarms in a 12-month period do not result in a fine.
• 4^th/5^th false alarm is $50 each, 6^th/7^th false alarm is $75 each, 8^th false alarm or more is $100 each.
• Excessive false alarms may also lead to a permit suspension or revocation.

If your permit is revoked, you must disconnect the alarm system and surrender the permit. You may reapply, but reinstatement may require a deposit and inspection.

PMAM Corporation is the City of Bellaire’s authorized contracted vendor for managing alarm permits and fees. Yes, it is safe to pay through their secure site. As always, please use the official link provided by the City or contact PMAM at 1-866-552-9032 if you have additional questions.