Los Gatos will start charging residents for their home alarm systems next year — and could even issue fines for too many false alarms.

The town will require homeowners with security alarms to pay for $95 annual permits, in an effort to crack down on false alarms and conserve Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department resources. Police data shows officers responded to more than 910 false alarms last fiscal year out of 1,375 alarm activations, about 40% of which came from homes. The Town Council unanimously approved the decision earlier this month, with the policy taking effect in January.

The town can fine property owners $175 for two or more false alarms within six months in a calendar year, under the new policy. Police can give a home a “do not respond” designation if a property owner has

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