CS/HB 779 Summary

• Creates section 553.7931 establishing a uniform alarm system registration process for Florida municipalities that require registration by local ordinance, regulation, or rule.

• Requires property owners, lessees, occupants, or authorized representatives to register alarm systems within 20 days of installation or occupancy; applications may be submitted electronically or by facsimile.

• Authorizes local governmental entities to charge a registration fee of up to $25; registration remains valid as long as the registrant occupies the property, with new occupants required to file upon transfer of possession.

• Requires registrants to notify local authorities within 30 days of any changes to submitted information; mandates alarm contractors to advise customers of registration obligations at time of installation.

• Establishes that civil penalties and fines for failure to register or excessive false alarms are the responsibility of property owners, lessees, or occupants only, not alarm contractors or monitoring companies.

• Takes effect October 1, 2016.