Bellevue follows Washington State Building Code requiring smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level, plus CO alarms under RCW 19.27.530.
Bellevue enforces Washington State Building Code which adopts the International Residential Code with amendments requiring smoke alarms in every bedroom, in hallways outside sleeping areas, and on every level of dwelling units including basements. Alarms installed in new construction or substantial alterations must be hardwired with battery backup and interconnected so all alarms sound when one activates. Existing homes may use battery-only alarms but 10-year sealed-battery models are recommended and required at point of sale in many cases. Carbon monoxide alarms are mandatory under Washington state law RCW 19.27.530 in all homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages, installed outside each separate sleeping area. Rental properties must have working smoke and CO alarms at tenant move-in under Residential Landlord Tenant Act RCW 59.18.060. Tampering with or disabling smoke alarms is prohibited. Bellevue Fire offers free smoke alarm installation for qualifying residents through community risk reduction programs.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in King County handle smoke detectors.
See how Bellevue's smoke detectors rules stack up against other locations.
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