Oakland, CA Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

320 requires approved smoke detectors to be installed and maintained in all units with bedroom window security bars and in the common corridors adjacent to those units; within each unit, detectors must be located in every bedroom and in the hallway adjacent to a bedroom. Tenants must notify the owner or the owner's agent if a detector becomes inoperable, and both owners and tenants share responsibility for keeping batteries maintained. 290 backs this up directly: release mechanisms, smoke detectors, and smoke detector batteries required under the Chapter can never be removed, rendered inoperable, or made inaccessible by anyone.

300 requires the owner or authorized agent to inspect and test the release mechanisms and smoke detectors, and replace batteries, at least once a year and every time the unit turns over to a new tenant, instructing the incoming tenant on use and maintenance at that time. The owner must keep a written maintenance log for each rental unit, recording the unit address, owner contact information, current and new tenants, move-in dates, the date tenants were instructed on the equipment, the date of the owner's inspection and battery replacement, and the tenant's signature confirming the inspection. The Fire Marshal or Building Official can demand that log on request. 220.