Haltom City, TX Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

Haltom City has adopted the International Residential Code (IRC Section R314) and International Fire Code (IFC Section 907.2.11) governing smoke alarm placement and maintenance. In all new construction and substantial remodels, smoke alarms are required in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area within 10 feet of the bedroom doors, on every story including basements, and interconnected so activation of one sounds all alarms. Hardwired alarms with battery backup are required in new construction; existing dwellings generally must maintain at least battery-powered alarms at these locations. Alarms must be installed at least 3 feet from HVAC registers and 20 feet from cooking appliances to reduce nuisance trips (photoelectric technology is recommended near kitchens). Under Texas Property Code Chapter 92 Subchapter F, residential landlords must provide working smoke alarms at the start of a tenancy and test them at the request of the tenant; landlords cannot charge the tenant for routine battery replacement if they provided the alarm. Carbon monoxide alarms are required in dwellings with attached garages or fuel-burning appliances under the IRC. Haltom City Fire Department will provide free smoke alarm installations for low-income residents through state and federal community risk reduction programs when funding is available.