Bellflower, CA Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

Bellflower does not impose its own smoke-detector ordinance; the requirements come from California law, which applies citywide. Under California Health and Safety Code Section 13113.7, State Fire Marshal-approved smoke alarms must be installed in every dwelling intended for human occupancy, including single-family homes, with no exception. Following the California Building/Residential Code, alarms must be placed inside each sleeping room, in the hallway or area immediately outside each separate sleeping area, on every story of the dwelling, and in basements. Newer battery-only alarms must have a non-replaceable 10-year sealed battery and a hush feature. The California Residential Code also requires carbon monoxide alarms in dwelling units that have a fuel-burning appliance (such as a gas furnace, water heater, stove or fireplace) or an attached garage; CO alarms are not required where there is no fuel-burning appliance and the garage is detached. For rental property, the owner is responsible for installing, testing and maintaining the required smoke and CO alarms, and tenants must notify the owner of any deficiency. Because Bellflower's building permits and inspections apply these state codes, retrofits at sale or alteration and rental-housing obligations follow the statewide standard rather than a unique local rule.