Smoke Detectors: Dallas vs Fort Worth
How do smoke detectors rules compare between Dallas, TX and Fort Worth, TX?
Dallas and Fort Worth have similar restriction levels.
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 →Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Fort Worth requires working smoke alarms in every sleeping area and on every floor under the adopted International Fire Code and Texas Property Code Section 92.251 for rentals.
View full Fort Worth rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Fort Worth |
|---|---|---|
| Required Locations | Every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, every level | Every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, every floor |
| State Law | TX Health & Safety Code Ch. 766 | - |
| Landlord Duty | TX Property Code §92.255 | - |
| Battery Type | 10-year sealed lithium preferred | - |
| New Construction | - | Interconnected, hardwired |
| Rental Statute | - | TX Prop Code 92.251 |
| Landlord Repair | - | 7-day response duty |
| Free Alarms | - | Fort Worth Fire community program |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Fort Worth FAQ
Must Fort Worth landlords install smoke alarms?
Yes. Texas Property Code 92.251 requires landlords to install, maintain, and repair smoke alarms and respond to tenant requests within seven days.
Where do smoke alarms go in a Fort Worth home?
In every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level including basements. New or remodeled homes require interconnected hardwired units.
Compare other topics
See how Dallas and Fort Worth compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool