Carrollton vs Dallas
How do smoke detectors rules compare between Carrollton, TX and Dallas, TX?
Carrollton has fewer restrictions than Dallas.
Carrollton, TX
Dallas County
TX Property Code Section 92.251-92.262 requires smoke detectors in all rental dwellings. Dallas County Fire Code (2015 IFC adopted 2019) requires detectors in commercial and multi-family 4+ units. Single-family owner-occupied homes follow IRC standards at time of construction.
View full Carrollton rules →Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas adopts the 2021 International Residential Code and International Fire Code requiring smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 766 mandates smoke detectors in all residential dwellings.
View full Dallas rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carrollton | Dallas |
|---|---|---|
| Rentals | TX Property Code Sections 92.251-92.262 | - |
| Commercial/Multi-family | Dallas County Fire Code | - |
| Owner-Occupied | IRC at time of construction | - |
| Enforcement | Fire Marshal (commercial) | - |
| Required Locations | - | Every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, every level |
| State Law | - | TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 766 |
| Landlord Duty | - | TX Property Code §92.255 |
| Battery Type | - | 10-year sealed lithium preferred |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carrollton FAQ
Does Dallas County require smoke detectors in single-family homes?
The county fire code applies to commercial and multifamily buildings. For single-family rentals, Texas Property Code §92.255 requires landlords to provide smoke alarms. Homeowners are strongly encouraged to install them.
Does the county provide free smoke detectors?
Contact the Dallas County Fire Marshal's Office at (214) 653-7970 to ask about smoke alarm installation programs.
Dallas FAQ
Where do smoke detectors need to be in Dallas homes?
In every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home including basements and habitable attics.
Are landlords required to provide smoke detectors in Dallas?
Yes. Texas Property Code §92.255 requires landlords to install at least one smoke detector outside each bedroom.
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