Audible intruder alarms

Noise caused by frequently or continuously sounding burglar alarms and car alarms is a common cause for complaint in Dorset.

Report a noise or nuisance complaint in Dorset online

You can now report a noise or nuisance complaint in Dorset with a short online form.

If an alarm rings unnecessarily and causes a noise nuisance the council can obtain a magistrates warrant to break into the property to silence the alarm.

If an alarm can be silenced without breaking into a property, the council is, in some circumstances, empowered to do this without obtaining a magistrate's warrant.

The council may also recover from the householder any costs incurred in silencing a noisy alarm. We may also prosecute the householder, which can result in a fine of up to £5,000.

If you have an intruder alarm, or are planning to have one fitted to your property, it is recommended that:

You appoint two key holders who can act in your absence
Alarms and key holders should be registered with the council

The alarm system complies with British Standard 4737
The alarm is fitted with a 20 minute cut-out and is regularly maintained by a competent person
Peace for a Pound is a company that will hold key holder information and look after your premises when you are away. To find out more information or to join the scheme telephone 0906 214 0400 or visit their website at www.peaceforapound.com (opens in a new window)

When reporting an alarm please have the exact address of the property or the details of the location, make, model, colour and registration number of the vehicle.

Vehicle alarms

The Registered Keeper of a vehicle must ensure that the alarm has a five minute cut-out device and that the alarm is set to minimise 'false alarms'. An alarm will have to be deactivated by the council if it is causing a noise nuisance. Any vehicle which cannot be secured will be towed away. Full costs will be recovered from the registered keeper.

Purbeck residents

For those residing in the Purbeck area - you can register your premises (business or domestic) by printing and completing an Alarm Registration Form (pdf, 50kb) (opens in a new window)