Little Elm adopts the 2018 IFC (Ordinance 1494) requiring smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway, and level. CO detectors required near fuel-burning appliances. TX H&S Code Ch. 766 covers rentals.
The Town of Little Elm adopted the 2018 International Fire Code with local amendments under Ordinance 1494. Smoke alarms must be installed in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms, and on each additional story of the dwelling including basements. For new construction and major renovations, interconnected hardwired smoke alarms with battery backup are required per 2018 IRC Section R314. Carbon monoxide alarms are required outside sleeping areas on the same floor as any fuel-burning appliance or attached garage per 2018 IRC Section R315. Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 766 requires landlords in rental properties to provide working smoke detectors and allows tenants to request installation. Existing homes may use battery-operated alarms but hardwired interconnected units are required for new construction. Smoke alarms must be replaced every 10 years per manufacturer guidelines.
Rental property without working smoke detectors: landlord liable under TX Health and Safety Code Ch. 766. Fire code violations: up to $2,000 fine.
See how other cities in Denton County handle smoke detectors.
See how Little Elm's smoke detectors rules stack up against other locations.
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