Santa Clara County, CA Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

There is no special county smoke-detector ordinance for unincorporated Santa Clara County beyond what state law requires; the controlling rules are in the California Health & Safety Code and the adopted California building/fire codes. Health & Safety Code Section 13113.7 requires working smoke alarms in every residential dwelling unit, installed in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on each level including basements. Since July 1, 2014, the State Fire Marshal has required that solely battery-powered smoke alarms contain a non-replaceable, non-removable battery capable of lasting at least ten years. Carbon monoxide alarms are required (under the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act) in all dwellings that have a fuel-burning appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage. For rented single-family homes, the owner is responsible for testing and maintaining the alarms and must give tenants written notice before entering to install, repair, test, or maintain them. New construction and major alterations must also meet the hard-wired, interconnected alarm provisions of the California Residential and Building Codes as adopted by the county. A violation of the smoke-alarm statute is an infraction punishable by a fine of up to $200 per offense. Because unincorporated Santa Clara County includes substantial wildland-urban interface, properly maintained smoke and CO alarms are part of the broader fire-safety expectation, along with monthly testing and annual battery checks recommended by the county fire department.