San Antonio Alarm Permit
Find the permit requirements, fees, and official application for your San Antonio property.
Last Updated October 13, 2026
Alarm permit requirements in San Antonio
San Antonio requires an alarm permit for qualifying systems.
Residential fire/police combined $50; age 65+ $30. Qualifying domestic-violence victims may receive a waiver. Commercial police $200 and fire $200 require separate permits. No military/disabled-veteran discount stated.
How to apply
Follow the official application steps below.
Step 1
Apply/pay through the city-linked PMAM portal, or visit the Alarms Investigation Office at 315 S. Santa Rosa St.
Step 2
Obtain the permit within 12 hours of completing alarm installation.
Step 3
Renew before expiration and maintain separate commercial fire/police permits as applicable.
| Permit type | Initial fee | Renewal fee | Renewal frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential — combined fire/police | $50 | $50 | Annual |
| Commercial — police | $200 | Annual | |
| Commercial — fireSeparate commercial fire and police permits are required. Confirm renewal fees with the city. | $200 | Annual |
False alarms and important rules
Active permitted burglary: first 3 free; 4-5 $50 each; 6-7 $75 each; 8+ $100 each per 12-month period. Panic, fire and unpermitted alarms follow separate schedules.
Before you apply
City of San Antonio locations with burglar, panic or fire systems. Standalone smoke detectors unconnected to an alarm panel and locations with only self-monitoring cameras do not require permits. Each individually monitored structure needs its own permit.
City names and ZIP codes are starting points. Confirm which agency serves the actual property address before submitting an application.
Frequently asked questions
Official source
For the most up-to-date information, forms, and payment options, visit the official city source below.
