Smoke Detectors: Mountain View vs San Jose
How do smoke detectors rules compare between Mountain View, CA and San Jose, CA?
Mountain View and San Jose have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
California law requires working smoke alarms in all dwellings, and carbon monoxide alarms in any home with fuel appliances or an attached garage. Mountain View enforces these on sale and at rental turnover.
View full Mountain View rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose enforces California Building Code and Health & Safety Code smoke alarm requirements, mandating working alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on each level of a home. Carbon monoxide alarms are also required. Hardwired interconnected alarms are standard in new construction and major remodels.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Every bedroom | Smoke alarm required | - |
| Every floor | Smoke alarm required | - |
| CO alarms | With fuel appliances or garage | - |
| Battery standard | 10-year sealed since 2015 | - |
| Rental check | Every tenant turnover | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can a landlord require the tenant to maintain alarms?
The landlord must install and verify alarms; tenants are generally responsible for replacing batteries and testing monthly during tenancy.
Do I need a CO alarm if I have all electric appliances?
Only if you have an attached garage or a fireplace; otherwise an all-electric dwelling may not require a CO alarm.
San Jose FAQ
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