Phoenix, AZ Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

Under the 2018 Phoenix Building Construction Code (Chapter 9, Sec. 907 and IRC R314), single- or multiple-station smoke alarms must be installed inside each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms (such as the hallway), and on each additional story of the dwelling unit, including basements and habitable attics. All alarms within a unit must be interconnected so that activation of one sounds all others. Phoenix Ordinance G-5898 (effective April 18, 2014) further requires that any battery-operated smoke alarm sold or installed in the city be a UL-listed unit with a sealed, non-removable 10-year lithium battery, and no smoke alarm may be used more than 10 years past its date of manufacture. For rental properties, Arizona Revised Statutes § 36-1637 makes the landlord responsible for installing approved smoke detectors in each unit when housing is built or substantially remodeled and for repairing detectors after the tenant gives written notice; the tenant is responsible for routine maintenance and testing. Confirm current installation specifics with the Phoenix Planning & Development Department (Trade Reference Tag 619, residential smoke alarms guideline) at 602-262-7811 and fire-related questions with the Phoenix Fire Department.