Concerning electric security alarm systems.

Businesses gain electric alarms with safety rules

Beginning July 27, 2025, Washington local governments without existing electric security alarm rules must allow these systems at eligible outdoor storage sites. These are manufacturing, commercial, or industrial sites storing vehicles, vessels, aircraft, equipment, raw materials, freight, or utility infrastructure outdoors. Storage in unenclosed buildings also qualifies. The site’s use must be allowed or legally nonconforming. Sites bordering K–12 schools or with existing residential or lodging uses are excluded. Outdoor displays for immediate sale cannot exceed 10% of net lot area. Mixed-use zoning alone does not qualify a property. Systems must use battery-powered energizers of no more than 12 volts DC. Electric charges must stay within IEC 60335-2-76 limits as of January 1, 2025. Systems must stand 10 feet tall or two feet above the surrounding barrier, whichever is higher. An outer barrier must be at least five feet tall; existing barriers meeting local fence rules when installed may remain. Signs reading “Warning: Electric Fence” must appear no more than 30 feet apart. An emergency shutoff device for first responders is required where the local government uses one. Local governments may require the same operator licenses or permits as for other alarms, plus permits for new barriers. They cannot add other alarm installation conditions or required improvements under the state standard. Fence rules apply to the alarm itself only when they expressly reference electric security alarms. Existing local alarm rules, including bans, remain in force. Later local rules require two public hearings and “electric security alarm” in the ordinance title. Systems installed before July 27, 2025, may keep operating if they meet the law’s requirements. These rules do not cover burglar or fire alarms.