§ 8-1. Definitions.

(a) In general.

In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

(b) Alarm system.

(1) "Alarm system" means a device or series of devices that emits, transmits, or relays:

(i) an audible, visual, or electronic alarm signal that is electronically programmed to cause contact with or summon police; or

(ii) an audible or visual alarm signal that is intended to elicit a police response at the alarm system user's property when activated.

(2) "Alarm system" does not include:

(i) telephone lines used to carry alarm signals; or

(ii) any device installed in a vehicle, as defined in the Maryland Vehicle Law.

"Commissioner" means the Housing Commissioner of Baltimore City or the Commissioner's designee.

(d) Contractor.

"Contractor" means any person engaged in the business of installing, maintaining, altering, inspecting, administering, selling, or servicing alarm systems.

(e) False alarm.

(1) "False alarm" means any alarm system signal:

(i) that results in a police response to the user's property; and

(ii) for which no evidence is found, after reasonable investigation, of any criminal activity, property damage, or medical emergency that would justify a police response.

(2) "False alarm" does not include:

(i) an alarm signal that is cancelled by the monitor before a responding police officer arrives at the alarm location;

(ii) an alarm signal that occurs within 30 days of the original installation of the alarm system; or

(iii) an alarm signal from a medical alert device.

(f) Hold-up alarm.

"Hold-up alarm" means a silent alarm system that is manually activated to signal a robbery in progress.

(g) Monitor.

"Monitor" means any person engaged in the business of monitoring alarm systems for the purpose of reporting an alarm system's activation to the Police Department.

(h) Panic alarm.

"Panic alarm" means an alarm system that is activated by an individual on or near the premises to alert others that a robbery or other crime is in progress.

(i) User.

(1) "User" means, except as specified in paragraph (2) of this subsection:

(i) the owner or lessee of any alarm system;

(ii) the owner or lessee of any dwelling unit, place of business, or other premises that has been equipped with an alarm system; or

(iii) any other person that uses an alarm system.

(2) "User" does not include:

(i) the owner or manager of a multi-tenant building with respect to any alarm system that is used solely by a tenant of that building; or

(ii) a governmental entity or an instrumentality or unit of a governmental entity.