This bill amends Iowa's Code sections 331.301 and 364.3 to limit the authority of counties and cities in regulating the installation and use of battery-charged security alarm systems on nonresidential properties. It defines a battery-charged security alarm system as an outdoor alarm system that connects to an alarm system to alert businesses and monitoring stations in response to burglaries, powered by a commercial storage battery not exceeding 12 volts, and includes a dedicated battery-charging device. The bill specifies that such systems will not be classified as fences and will not require a fence permit for installation on nonresidential properties.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for battery-charged security alarm systems to be exempt from local regulations, including certification of the energizer to meet international standards, placement behind a non-electric perimeter fence of at least five feet, a height requirement for the alarm system, and the posting of warning signs. It clarifies that these provisions do not apply to residential properties and that counties and cities can only require an alarm system operator license or permit in the same manner as for other security systems. The bill also states that it does not pertain to security alarm systems that do not fit the defined criteria.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 331.301, 364.3