Alarm Permits

The City of San Diego requires permits for burglary, robbery, fire, and harmful gas alarm systems for both residential and commercial properties. Read the Frequently Asked Questions (PDF) about alarm system permits, and the Department policy on the process for administering the Fire/Harmful Gas Alarm System permits and how and when penalty mitigation would be appropriate. You may apply and pay your alarm permit fees online; or download, fill-in and print a downloadable application.

Apply or Pay for Alarm Permits

Monitored Fire Alarm Permit

The City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department requires a permit for monitored fire and/or harmful gas alarm systems for both residential and commercial properties. A fire alarm permit is $18.00 for 24 months and may be obtained using one of the following options:

Apply or Pay for Alarm Permits Online

• Apply by Mail:

Note: This is a separate permit requirement from the monitored security alarm permit requirement with the San Diego Police Department.

The installation or modification of a fire alarm system requires a Fire Permit from the Development Services Department.

Other Permits

Certain kinds of activities require a permit which must be applied for through the Fire Prevention Bureau.

• Hazardous materials tank and system installations require permit applications and plan submittal.
• Special events involving large groups of people must all be permitted.

New construction and tenant improvements of existing buildings are also reviewed, but are under the management of City's Development Services Department.

The Development Services Department is located at 1222 First Ave. in downtown San Diego.

Other permits do not require a special application, but are received at the time of the annual building inspections when any violations are corrected.