Philadelphia, PA Building Safety: Carbon Monoxide Detectors (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Fire Code § F-1103.9
- Applies to
- Existing dwelling/sleeping units
- Older-building exemption
- I-1, I-2, I-4, R-1, R-2 pre-2019
- Sale disclosure
- Required for Group R-3 sales
- Enforcement
- Licenses and Inspections
Summary
Existing dwelling and sleeping units in Philadelphia must have carbon monoxide alarms whenever a hazard condition like a fuel-burning appliance or attached garage is present, under the city's Fire Code.
F-1103.9 Carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed in existing dwelling units or sleeping units in accordance with Sections F-1103.9.1 through F-1103.9.3 where any of the conditions in Sections 915.1.2 through 915.1.6 exist. A carbon monoxide detection system installed in accordance with Section 915.5 shall be an acceptable alternative to carbon monoxide alarms. Exception: Carbon monoxide alarms are not required in dwelling units and sleeping units of I-1, I-2, I-4, R-1 and R-2 occupancies constructed before April 1, 2019.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 Code: Electronic version of The Philadelphia Code and Home Rule Charter is current through August 19, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Philadelphia's Fire Code (Subcode F of the Building Construction and Occupancy Code) requires carbon monoxide alarms in existing dwelling and sleeping units whenever a hazard condition listed in Sections 915.1.2 through 915.1.6 applies: such as a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage. Alarms must be located per Section 915.2, or replaced by an approved detection system under Section 915.5. Institutional and R-1/R-2 occupancies built before April 1, 2019 are exempt. On the sale of any building with a Group R-3 occupancy, the seller must certify in writing to the buyer that the required carbon monoxide devices are installed and in proper operating condition.
Violations & Fines
Missing or non-functioning required CO alarms is a Fire/Property Maintenance Code violation. The Department of Licenses and Inspections can issue a violation notice and compliance order; failure to fix it can bring fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every Philadelphia home need a CO alarm?
Can a battery-powered CO alarm meet the rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Philadelphia
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