Federal Way enforces WAC 51-51-0314 via FWRC 13.22. Smoke alarms required in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every floor. CO detectors required per RCW 19.27.530 in all dwellings.
FWRC Chapter 13.22 adopts the Washington State Residential Code including WAC 51-51-0314, which requires smoke alarms in each bedroom, in the hallway immediately outside each sleeping area, and on every story of the dwelling including basements and habitable attics. In new construction and when performing alterations, repairs, or additions requiring a permit, alarms must be hardwired with battery backup and interconnected so that activation of any one alarm sounds all alarms. Existing homes without hardwired alarms may use battery-powered alarms meeting the same location requirements. Carbon monoxide detectors are required in all dwelling units under RCW 19.27.530 and WAC 51-51-0315, placed outside each separate sleeping area and on each story. Landlords must install and test alarms before tenant occupancy; tenants are responsible for battery replacement and notifying landlords of failures. The Washington State 10-year sealed battery rule (RCW 43.44.110) applies to new alarm purchases.
Failure to provide required smoke/CO alarms: building code violation, civil infraction under FWRC 1.15, plus potential landlord liability under the Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18).
See how other cities in King County handle smoke detectors.
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