Smoke Detectors: Goodyear vs Peoria

Does unincorporated Maricopa County require smoke detectors in homes?

Yes. Arizona Revised Statutes Section 36-1637 requires an approved smoke detector in each new residential housing unit during construction, and in any existing unit where a sleeping area is remodeled under permit. The Maricopa County Planning & Development Department enforces this through building permits and the adopted International Residential Code, which adds placement and power-source requirements under Section R314.

Who is responsible for maintaining smoke detectors in a Maricopa County rental?

Section 36-1637 places the duty on the tenant to maintain and keep the smoke detector operable. Once the tenant provides the landlord with written notice of a malfunction, the landlord is responsible for the repair. The landlord must also give the tenant written notice of the tenant's responsibilities under the statute.

Where do smoke alarms have to be installed in a new home in unincorporated Maricopa County?

Maricopa County enforces the International Residential Code Section R314 as part of its adopted building codes. R314 requires smoke alarms inside each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms, and on every story of the dwelling, including basements. New construction units must be hard-wired with battery backup and interconnected so all alarms sound when one is triggered.

Where are smoke alarms required in a Peoria, AZ home?

Under the International Residential Code and 2018 International Fire Code adopted by Peoria City Code Section 9-31, smoke alarms must be installed inside each sleeping room, in the hallway or area outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on each additional story of the dwelling, including basements and habitable attics. In new construction, the alarms must be hardwired to building power with a battery backup and interconnected so that one activation sounds them all. Arizona Revised Statutes Section 36-1637 requires an approved smoke detector in every new residential housing unit at construction and in existing units whenever a sleeping area is remodeled with a permit.

Who is responsible for smoke alarms in a Peoria rental?

Arizona Revised Statutes Section 36-1637 makes the tenant responsible for keeping the smoke detector operable unless the tenant gives the landlord written notice that the device is malfunctioning. After receiving written notice, the landlord must repair the alarm. The landlord is required to give the tenant written notification of these responsibilities. Initial installation in a new dwelling and after a permitted remodel of a sleeping area is the property owner's responsibility.