Evanston, IL Building Safety: Carbon Monoxide Detectors (2026)
Key Facts
- Placement
- Within 15 feet of bedrooms
- Responsibility
- Owner installs, tenant maintains
- First-offense fine
- $75
- Third-offense fine
- $375
Summary
Every Evanston dwelling unit must have a working carbon monoxide alarm within 15 feet of each sleeping room. Owners install and supply units; tenants must test and maintain them.
Every dwelling unit shall be equipped with at least one approved carbon monoxide alarm in an operating condition within fifteen feet (15') of every room used for sleeping purposes. The carbon monoxide alarm may be combined with smoke detecting devices provided that the combined unit complies with the respective provisions of this Code, reference standards, and departmental rules relating to both smoke detecting devices and carbon monoxide alarms and provided that the combined unit emits an alarm in a manner that clearly differentiates the hazard.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 21).
Full Breakdown
Evanston's Carbon Monoxide Alarm Ordinance requires at least one approved CO alarm within 15 feet of every sleeping room in every dwelling unit, and in every structure with more than one unit. Owners must supply, install, and ensure working batteries at move-in; tenants must test alarms, do general maintenance, and notify the owner in writing of deficiencies. Units with no fossil-fuel combustion, no garage connection, and no nearby CO source can qualify for an exemption under § 9-15-4.
Violations & Fines
Failing to install or maintain a required CO alarm: $75 first offense, $200 second, $375 third or subsequent. Tampering with or disabling an alarm: $150 first offense, up to $750 for repeat violations. Each day counts as a separate violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who installs the carbon monoxide alarm, the landlord or the tenant?
Are any Evanston homes exempt from the CO alarm requirement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Evanston
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Carbon Monoxide Detectors in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Cook County handle carbon monoxide detectors.