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

Inyo County adopts the California Code of Regulations, Title 24 (including the California Residential Code and California Fire Code) as the local building standard through its Building Regulations chapter (Inyo County Code Chapter 14.08), so statewide smoke-alarm standards apply to unincorporated dwellings. California Health & Safety Code Section 13113.7 requires that approved, State Fire Marshal-listed smoke alarms be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions in every one- or two-unit dwelling, apartment, condominium, hotel, motel, and similar dwelling intended for human occupancy. The California Residential Code requires smoke alarms inside each bedroom, in the hallway or area immediately outside each sleeping area, and on each additional story including basements. Since July 1, 2014, new battery-only smoke alarms sold in California must have a non-replaceable 10-year sealed battery. For rentals, the owner must ensure alarms are operable at the start of a tenancy and maintain them; tenants must notify the owner of any inoperable alarm. Where a dwelling has a gas appliance, fireplace, or attached garage, a carbon monoxide alarm is also required under the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act (H&S Code Section 13260 and following).