Smoke Detectors: Los Angeles vs San Francisco
How do smoke detectors rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA?
Los Angeles and San Francisco have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
California Health and Safety Code 13113.7 plus LAMC require smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every floor. Replacements must be 10-year sealed lithium.
View full Los Angeles rules →San Francisco, CA
San Francisco County
San Francisco Housing Code Section 1301 and California Health & Safety Code 13113.7 require working smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every floor. Hardwired with battery backup is required for new construction; 10-year sealed battery alarms acceptable for existing single-family homes.
View full San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Required locations | Each bedroom, hallway, every floor | - |
| Battery type | 10-year sealed lithium (post-2015) | - |
| CO alarm law | SB 183 | - |
| Rental inspections | LAHD SCEP program | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need to replace older battery alarms?
When they reach end-of-life or fail, any replacement must meet the 10-year sealed lithium standard. Hard-wired units with battery backup remain compliant.
Who enforces smoke alarm rules for renters?
The LA Housing Department inspects rental units under SCEP and can cite landlords. Tenants can file a complaint through LAHD if alarms are missing or non-functional.
San Francisco FAQ
Compare other topics
See how Los Angeles and San Francisco 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