Smoke Detectors: San Mateo vs South San Francisco
How do smoke detectors rules compare between San Mateo, CA and South San Francisco, CA?
South San Francisco has fewer restrictions than San Mateo.
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
The City of San Mateo enforces smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm requirements through the California Residential Code (CRC R314 and R315) as adopted under San Mateo Municipal Code Title 23, plus California Health & Safety Code Sections 13113.7 and 17926. Alarms are required in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every story including basements. San Mateo Consolidated Fire enforces these standards across the city.
View full San Mateo rules →South San Francisco, CA
San Mateo County
Smoke alarms in unincorporated San Mateo County dwellings are governed by California Health & Safety Code section 13113.7 and the California Fire/Building Codes. Newer battery-only alarms must have a 10-year sealed non-replaceable battery, and alarms must be replaced 10 years after the manufacture date. Violations are a $200 infraction.
View full South San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Mateo | South San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Code References | CRC R314 / R315; SMMC Title 23, Chapter 23.28 | - |
| State Statute | Cal. H&S Code 13113.7 and 17926 | - |
| Smoke Alarm Locations | Each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, every story | - |
| CO Alarm Required | Dwellings with fuel appliance, fireplace, or attached garage | - |
| New Construction Power | Hardwired with battery backup | - |
| Existing Dwellings | Battery-only allowed if no finish removal | - |
| Interconnection | Required - one activates all | - |
| Permit Trigger | $1,000+ residential alteration | - |
| Point of Sale | Seller compliance affidavit required | - |
| Enforcement | San Mateo Consolidated Fire (650-522-7940) | - |
| Governing law | - | California Health & Safety Code section 13113.7 |
| Local ordinance | - | None - state law applies |
| Battery-only alarms | - | 10-year sealed non-replaceable battery (since 7/1/2014) |
| Replacement | - | Replace 10 years after manufacture date |
| Placement | - | Each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, every level |
| Violation penalty | - | Infraction, up to $200 per offense |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Mateo FAQ
Where do I have to install smoke alarms in a San Mateo home?
California Residential Code R314, as adopted by SMMC Title 23, requires a State Fire Marshal-listed smoke alarm in 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.
Do I need carbon monoxide alarms in my San Mateo home?
Yes, if the dwelling has any fuel-burning appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage. CRC R315 and California Health & Safety Code 17926 require listed CO alarms outside each sleeping area and on every story.
When do I have to upgrade my alarms during a remodel in San Mateo?
Effective January 1, 2011, any residential building permit valued over $1,000 requires that all smoke and CO alarms throughout the residence be brought up to current California Residential Code standards before final inspection.
South San Francisco FAQ
Does unincorporated San Mateo County have its own smoke-detector law?
No. Smoke alarm requirements come from California Health & Safety Code section 13113.7 and the state Building and Fire Codes, enforced by county building and fire officials. There is no separate county smoke-alarm ordinance.
Do I need 10-year sealed-battery smoke alarms?
Yes, for battery-only units. Since July 1, 2014, all solely battery-operated smoke alarms in California must contain a non-replaceable, non-removable 10-year battery. All smoke alarms must be replaced 10 years after their manufacture date.
What is the penalty for missing smoke alarms?
A violation of Health & Safety Code section 13113.7 is an infraction punishable by a maximum fine of $200 per offense.
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