(a) The sounding of an audible signal from a security alarm system that can be heard continuously off the premises for more than ten minutes is a violation of this article and the alarm user, in addition to any other penalties specified in this chapter, shall be penalized by a fine of fifty dollars for each offense.

(b) It is a defense to a violation of this section that the continuous sounding of the alarm:

(1) Assisted in saving a life or avoiding injury;

(2) Was caused by a malfunction of the alarm system equipment without the alarm user’s prior knowledge of the cause of the malfunction; or

(3) Was activated by an unauthorized entry or criminal activity. (Ord. O-16-04 (part), 2004)