Smoke Detectors: Mesa vs Peoria

Does Mesa have its own smoke detector ordinance?

No. Mesa enforces Arizona Revised Statutes Sec. 36-1637 and the International Fire Code adopted through Title 7 of the Mesa City Code rather than a stand-alone city smoke alarm ordinance. ARS 36-1637 requires an approved smoke detector in every new residential unit and in any existing unit where a sleeping area is remodeled with a permit. Mesa Fire and Medical also recommends monthly testing and replacing alarms every 10 years.

Who is responsible for smoke alarms in a Mesa rental, the landlord or the tenant?

Arizona ARS 36-1637 makes the tenant responsible for keeping the alarm operable, including testing it and replacing batteries. If the tenant gives the landlord written notice that a smoke detector is malfunctioning, the landlord must repair it. Landlords must also provide tenants with written notice of these responsibilities. Mesa enforces this state framework.

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.