Kent, WA Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)
Key Facts
- Required locations
- Each bedroom, hallway, every level
- New construction
- Hardwired interconnected with battery backup
- Landlord duty
- RCW 43.44.110 install and maintain
- CO alarms
- Required with fuel appliances or attached garage
- Free alarms
- PSRFA program for eligible residents
Summary
Kent requires working smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level. Landlords must install and maintain alarms in rentals under RCW 43.44.110.
19.27.530 Carbon monoxide alarms — Requirements — Exemptions — Adoption of rules. (1) By July 1, 2010, the building code council shall adopt rules requiring that all buildings classified as residential occupancies, as defined in the state building code in chapter 51-54 WAC, but excluding owner-occupied single-family residences legally occupied before July 26, 2009, be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms.
Full Breakdown
Kent adopts the International Residential Code and IFC as amended by Washington State Building Code Council, which require smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every story of a dwelling including basements. New construction and substantial remodels must use interconnected hardwired alarms with battery backup. Existing single-family homes may use battery-only alarms if hardwiring is not practical during minor work. Landlords must provide functioning alarms at the start of each tenancy under RCW 43.44.110, and tenants are responsible for routine battery replacement and testing thereafter. Ten-year sealed lithium-battery alarms are recommended because they reduce missed-battery failures. Carbon monoxide alarms are also required outside each sleeping area in dwellings with fuel-fired appliances or attached garages. The Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority offers free alarm installation for income-qualified residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old can my smoke alarm be?
Can I disable an alarm that keeps chirping?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kent
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Smoke Detectors in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle smoke detectors.