Don’t make this mistake! The most common homeowner hiccup resulting in fines.

Released: January 8, 2025 at 10 a.m.

Many are unaware that if you have an alarm for your home or commercial business, you are legally required to have an alarm permit as well. Residential and commercial alarms are governed by a City of Winnipeg by-law. Whether your alarm is monitored or not, it’s important that your alarm is registered so first responders know who to contact in case an emergency occurs when the building is unoccupied.

Here’s some additional information about alarm permits that could save you from being subject to fines:

  • You can apply, renew, and update permit information online
  • Permits cost $32 for residential and $43 for commercial. They allow for updates to data to reflect accurate current information for all alarm systems in the City of Winnipeg
  • If you have an alarm for your home or business, you must have an alarm permit and renew it every four years
  • Permits are non-transferrable and are associated with the location and permit holder

It’s important to register your alarm so first responders are able to find up-to-date keyholder information and nullify the alarm. This keeps emergency responses streamlined, limits neighbourhood disruptions, and saves you from financial penalties. If you have an alarm that is not registered, it’s easy to apply or renew your permit by visiting us online.

Was this information helpful?

How can we make this web page better?

Information collected will be used to improve our website. Do not use this form to submit a request for service or information because it will not be forwarded to departments for response. To submit a request for service or information, contact 311.

This form is not intended to collect personal information; however, any personal information you choose to include in your comments is collected by the City of Winnipeg under the authority of section 36(1)(b) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for the purpose of improving our website and will not be used or disclosed for any other purposes, except as authorized by law. Contact the Corporate Access and Privacy Officer by mail (City Clerk’s Department, Susan A. Thompson Building, 510 Main Street, Winnipeg MB, R3B 1B9) or by telephone (311) if you have any questions about the collection of this information.