Smoke Detectors: Mount Vernon vs New Rochelle

Where do I have to install smoke alarms in a Mount Vernon home?

Section R314 of the 2020 New York State Residential Code (adopted via 19 NYCRR Part 1225 and enforced locally under Mount Vernon Chapter 131) requires a smoke alarm inside every sleeping room, 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. New construction alarms must be hardwired with battery backup and interconnected so one triggers all.

Can I still use 9-volt battery smoke alarms in Mount Vernon?

Existing replaceable-battery alarms installed in compliance with prior code may remain in service, but any battery-only replacement smoke alarm sold or installed in New York since April 1, 2019 must use a sealed, non-removable 10-year battery under NY General Business Law section 399-ccc. All smoke alarms must be replaced 10 years from the date of manufacture or sooner if they fail an operability test.

Where do I need smoke alarms in my New Rochelle home?

Inside each bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every story including the basement, per 19 NYCRR Part 1225 (NY Uniform Code) which New Rochelle enforces.

Hardwired or battery alarms?

New construction and substantial renovations require hardwired, interconnected alarms with battery backup. Existing one- and two-family homes may use battery alarms, but any new alarm sold in NY since April 2019 must have a sealed, non-removable 10-year battery (GBL Section 399-ccc).

Who is responsible for alarms in a New Rochelle rental?

Landlords must install operable alarms before tenant occupancy under Chapter 184 Housing Standards. Tenants must test and report failures. Contact the Bureau of Buildings at (914) 654-2185 to schedule the rental inspection.