Salt Lake County, UT Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

Utah has adopted the 2021 IRC with state amendments, effective through the Utah Uniform Building Standard Act. Section R314 governs smoke alarms and R315 governs carbon monoxide alarms. In new dwellings, smoke alarms must be installed in every sleeping room, in the hallway or area outside each separate sleeping area, and on every story of the dwelling. They must be hardwired to primary power with a battery backup and interconnected so that activation of one alarm triggers all alarms. Existing homes without alarms must install battery-powered alarms at minimum whenever a building permit is pulled for alterations, repairs, or additions over 1,000 dollars. Ten-year sealed lithium battery alarms satisfy the requirement in retrofit situations. Carbon monoxide alarms must be installed outside each sleeping area in dwellings with gas furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, or attached garages. Rental properties are subject to Utah Code 57-22-4, which requires landlords to provide working smoke and CO alarms at the start of each tenancy. Unified Fire Authority offers free smoke alarms and installation for qualifying residents through community risk reduction programs. Tampering with or removing a required alarm is a class B misdemeanor under Utah Code 53-7-225.