Mendocino County, CA Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

Mendocino County does not maintain a separate smoke detector ordinance distinct from California law; the statewide California Health and Safety Code and Building/Fire Codes apply. Section 13113.7 requires smoke alarms in dwelling units - in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on each level (including basements) - with the landlord responsible for installation and operability at the start of a tenancy in rental units. Section 13113.8 requires that every single-family dwelling and factory-built home that is sold or transferred have an operable smoke alarm that is approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal and installed per State Fire Marshal regulations; the seller must give the buyer written notice of compliance before transfer of title, with certain exemptions (court-ordered sales, foreclosures, transfers between spouses or family members). Separately, California Health and Safety Code Section 17926 has required, since 2011, carbon monoxide alarms in dwellings that have fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or an attached garage. Because many rural Mendocino County homes rely on propane appliances and wood stoves, carbon monoxide alarm requirements commonly apply. Battery-operated smoke alarms meeting State Fire Marshal listing are generally acceptable unless a stricter local rule applies.