Alarm Permit Requirements in Your Area

Some cities require homeowners and businesses to register their security systems with a local alarm permit.

Below you’ll find the current permit requirements for the communities we serve, including direct links to each jurisdiction’s official information. If your city or county requires a permit, we recommend completing it as soon as your system is installed to avoid delays or fines.

If your city requires a permit, completing it ensures accurate emergency response information and helps prevent false-alarm fines. Learn how professional monitoring works.

Alarm Permits Police at the door
CityPermit RequiredInformation/Link
City of Grand Forks NDYesVisit
East Grand Forks MNNoVisit
Thompson NDNoVisit
Manvel NDNoVisit
Emerado NDNoVisit
Larimore NDNoVisit
Reynolds NDNoVisit
Buxton NDNoVisit
Hillsboro NDNoVisit
Grafton NDNoVisit
Northwood NDNoVisit
Hatton NDNoVisit
Mayville NDNoVisit
Portland NDNoVisit
Niagara NDNoVisit
Gilby NDNoVisit
Inkster NDNoCity contact: (701) 869-2680
Mekinock NDNoCity contact: (701) 594-5200
Arvilla NDNoCity contact: (701) 343-6363
Crookston MNNoVisit
Red Lake Falls MNNoVisit
Warren MNNoVisit
Fisher MNNoVisit
Climax MNNoVisit
Ada MNNoVisit
Halstad MNNoVisit
Shelly MNNoVisit
Nielsville MNNoCity contact: (218) 946-3200
Beltrami MNNoVisit
Fertile MNNoVisit
Euclid MNNoCity contact: (218) 281-1232
Eldred MNNoCity contact: (218) 745-4545

Disclaimer: The information is provided as a general guide; this information is accurate as of 02/02/2026. Alarm permit requirements may change at any time. Please verify the most current permit rules directly with your city or county before installing or activating your alarm system. 

Alarm Permit FAQ for Grand Forks and Surrounding Cities

No. Alarm permits are issued by your local city or municipality, not by your security installer. Your installer can guide you on the process, but the permit itself must be obtained directly from your city’s official website or administrative office.

Yes. The City of Grand Forks requires an alarm license for residential and commercial security systems.

Most nearby communities—including East Grand Forks, Thompson, Manvel, Crookston, Warren, and others—do not require alarm permits.

Alarm permits help reduce false alarms and ensure emergency responders have accurate contact information.

In cities that require one, you may receive fines or delays in emergency response if your alarm triggers without a valid permit.

Why Alarm Permits Matter

Alarm permits help cities manage emergency response more efficiently. When a permit is on file, dispatchers have accurate contact information, system details, and the ability to verify alarms quickly. This reduces false alarms, prevents unnecessary police or fire department responses, and ensures that real emergencies receive priority attention. Some cities use permit programs to track false alarm trends, improve response times, and maintain public safety resources. Even if your city doesn’t require a permit, it’s still important to keep your system information up to date and ensure your monitoring service has accurate contact details. Staying informed about your local requirements helps avoid fines, delays, or miscommunication during an emergency.