Smoke Detectors: Sanger vs Selma

California Health and Safety Code Section 13113.7 and the California Building Code require working smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of a dwelling. Carbon monoxide detectors are also required in homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages.

Selma requires smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in all residential dwellings under the California Building Code and Health and Safety Code Section 13113.7, which mandates smoke alarms approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal in every dwelling unit intended for human occupancy. The Selma Fire Department and Building Division jointly enforce these requirements for both new construction and existing homes. Smoke alarms must be installed in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms, and on every level of the dwelling including basements and habitable attics. For new construction and major remodels, alarms must be hardwired to the building electrical system with battery backup and interconnected so that activation of any single alarm causes all alarms throughout the dwelling to sound simultaneously. Carbon monoxide detectors are separately required under HSC 17926 in all dwelling units containing fossil fuel-burning heaters, appliances, or fireplaces, or that have an attached garage. The City of Selma provides a Smoke Detector Affidavit form through its website for use during property transfers and rental compliance verification, confirming that all required smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are properly installed and operational.