Saint Paul, MN Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

Saint Paul has required hard-wired smoke detectors with battery backup in residential properties since the Smoke Detector Ordinance took effect in November 1988. For single-family and two-family homes, at least one hard-wired smoke detector with battery backup must be installed outside each sleeping area. This applies to all homes regardless of age, including those built before 1973. When a home is sold, compliance must be verified within 60 days of notification from the Department of Safety and Inspections. Multi-family buildings with three or more stories or 16 or more units must have a full automated fire alarm system with smoke detectors at the top of each stairwell and in corridors (within 15 feet of stairwell doors, then every 30 feet). Heat detectors are required in boiler rooms, laundry areas, and storage rooms. Buildings of three stories with fewer than 10 units may use interconnected hard-wired smoke detection instead of a full system. All systems must be audible at 75 decibels minimum and comply with NFPA 72. Minnesota Statute 299F.362 additionally requires battery-operated smoke detectors in every dwelling unit statewide. Installation of hard-wired smoke detectors requires an electrical permit.