Arvada follows the International Residential Code (IRC) Section R314 for smoke alarms and R315 for carbon monoxide alarms, with a 2024 IRC adoption taking effect in 2026. STR permits also require working smoke and CO detectors and fire extinguishers on floor plans submitted to the city.
Smoke alarms in Arvada one- and two-family dwellings are governed by IRC Section R314 as adopted by the City Building Division. Required locations include each sleeping room, immediately outside each separate sleeping area, and on every additional story including basements and habitable attics. Alarms must be hardwired with battery backup and interconnected when more than one is required. CO alarms are required by IRC R315 within 15 feet of each sleeping-room door in dwellings with fuel-fired appliances or attached garages. Arvada is adopting the 2024 IRC effective 2026, including an ADU option allowing interconnected smoke and CO detectors in lieu of full fire separation. STR permits also require detectors and extinguishers shown on floor plans under LDC 3-1-5-3.
Missing, disabled, or non-working smoke or CO alarms can trigger building-code citations from the Arvada Building Division and may delay or void permits, certificates of occupancy, and STR permit issuance or renewal under LDC 3-1-5-3.
See how Arvada's smoke detectors rules stack up against other locations.
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