Norfolk, VA Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)
Key Facts
- Required
- Every bedroom + level
- Battery
- 10-year sealed
- CO Detector
- If fuel appliance/garage
- Code
- Virginia USBC 13 VAC 5-63
- Free Install
- Norfolk Fire-Rescue program
Summary
Norfolk requires working smoke detectors in all residential dwellings under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and VA Code 15.2-922. Rental properties must have hardwired or 10-year sealed battery detectors with Fire Marshal inspection available.
Provide a certificate to the tenant stating that all smoke alarms are present, have been inspected, and are in good working order no more than once every 12 months. The landlord, his employee, or an independent contractor may perform the inspection to determine that the smoke alarm is in good working order. B. The landlord shall perform the duties imposed by subsection A in accordance with law; however, the landlord shall only be liable for the tenant's actual damages proximately caused by the landlord's failure to exercise ordinary care. C. If the duty imposed by subdivision A 1 is greater than any duty imposed by any other subdivision of that subsection, the landlord's duty shall be determined by reference to subdivision A 1. D.
Full Breakdown
The Virginia USBC (13 VAC 5-63) requires smoke detectors in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the dwelling, including basements. New construction and substantial renovations require hardwired, interconnected detectors with battery backup. Virginia Code 36-105.4 requires rental units to have operational detectors at the start of tenancy, and tenants must maintain them thereafter. Since 2019, when batteries are replaced, sealed 10-year lithium battery models must be used in dwellings where hardwiring is absent. Carbon monoxide detectors are required in any dwelling with fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage. The Norfolk Fire-Rescue Department offers free smoke detector installation for qualifying low-income residents.
Violations & Fines
Landlord violations can result in civil penalties up to 250 dollars per unit and VRLTA termination rights for tenants. Selling a property without required detectors is a Class 3 misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Norfolk
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