Gilbert, AZ Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

Gilbert enforces the 2018 International Residential Code and 2018 International Fire Code (the editions adopted by the State Fire Marshal for Arizona) for residential smoke alarms. Under IRC Section R314, single- or multiple-station smoke alarms must be installed inside each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms (typically the hallway), and on each additional story of the dwelling, including basements and habitable attics. Alarms within an individual unit must be interconnected so that activation of one sounds all of them. New construction and additions or alterations requiring a permit must use hardwired alarms with battery backup; in existing dwellings where no construction permit is being pulled, battery-only alarms remain acceptable. For rental homes, A.R.S. § 36-1637 makes the landlord responsible for installing approved smoke detectors during construction or permitted remodel of a sleeping area and for repairing detectors after the tenant gives written notice; tenants are responsible for routine testing and battery replacement. Confirm current local amendments with Gilbert Fire & Rescue at 480-503-6300.