San Diego enforces 2022 California Residential Code Section R314 and California Health and Safety Code Sections 13113.7 and 13114 through the San Diego Building Regulations (SDMC Chapter 14, Article 5). Smoke alarms are required in each sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every story including basements, with hard-wiring and interconnection in new construction.
The City of San Diego adopts the 2022 California Residential Code (including Section R314) and California Building Code through SDMC Chapter 14, Article 5. CRC R314 requires smoke alarms in each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area within 21 feet of any bedroom door, and on each additional story including basements and habitable attics. New construction and additions require hard-wired alarms with battery backup, interconnected so activation of one triggers all. California Health and Safety Code Sections 13113.7 and 13114 require smoke alarms in all existing dwelling units; alarms sold in California since July 1, 2014 must contain a non-removable 10-year sealed lithium battery (HSC 13114). Permits for alterations or additions exceeding $1,000 trigger retroactive smoke alarm compliance. Alarms must be listed and labeled to UL 217 and installed per NFPA 72. The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department recommends replacement every 10 years.
Missing, disabled, or non-compliant smoke alarms violate CRC R314 and California Health and Safety Code Section 13113.7 and can result in failed inspections, stop-work orders, and code-enforcement citations. Landlords face civil penalties under California HSC for failure to install or maintain alarms in rental units.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle smoke detectors.
See how San Diego's smoke detectors rules stack up against other locations.
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