Smoke Detectors: Milwaukee vs West Allis
How do smoke detectors rules compare between Milwaukee, WI and West Allis, WI?
West Allis has fewer restrictions than Milwaukee.
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee County
Milwaukee Code Chapter 214 requires working smoke alarms in every sleeping area and on every floor, plus interconnected hardwired alarms in new construction and major remodels.
View full Milwaukee rules →West Allis, WI
Milwaukee County
Smoke detector rules in Milwaukee County come from Wisconsin state law, Wis. Stat. 101.145, not a county ordinance. Owners must install detectors in the basement, at each stairway head, and in or near each sleeping area, on penalty of up to $50 per day.
View full West Allis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Milwaukee | West Allis |
|---|---|---|
| Bedroom Alarms | Required in each | - |
| Per Floor | Required | - |
| Max Age | 10 years | - |
| Free Alarms | MFD 414-286-8980 | - |
| Authority | - | Wis. Stat. 101.145 (state law) |
| Required locations | - | Basement, stair heads, sleeping areas |
| Owner duty | - | Install and maintain functional detectors |
| Penalty | - | Up to $50 per day of violation |
| CO detectors | - | Separate rule, Wis. Stat. 101.149 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Milwaukee FAQ
West Allis FAQ
Does Milwaukee County set smoke detector rules?
No. Smoke detectors are governed statewide by Wis. Stat. 101.145 under the Wisconsin building code, enforced through municipal building and rental inspections, not a county ordinance.
Where must smoke detectors go in Wisconsin?
In the basement, at the head of any stairway on each floor level, and either in each sleeping area or within 6 feet of it (not a kitchen), per Wis. Stat. 101.145.
What is the penalty for missing detectors?
Wis. Stat. 101.145 provides a forfeiture to the state of not more than $50 for each day of violation, usually enforced by local building or rental inspectors.
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