San Francisco Housing Code Section 1301 and California Health & Safety Code 13113.7 require working smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every floor. Hardwired with battery backup is required for new construction; 10-year sealed battery alarms acceptable for existing single-family homes.
Smoke alarm requirements in SF combine state law (H&S 13113.7, CBC Section 907.2) with local enforcement. Required locations: inside every bedroom, in the hallway immediately outside each sleeping area, and on every level of a dwelling including basements. For new construction, significant remodels, or sales, alarms must be hardwired to the building's power with battery backup and interconnected so one triggers all. Existing single-family homes may use 10-year sealed-lithium-battery alarms. Rental units must be inspected by the owner annually and at every tenant turnover, and the owner must provide operable alarms. Carbon monoxide alarms are separately required under SB 183 in any dwelling with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage. SF Fire Department can inspect on complaint and issue Notices of Violation; landlords face administrative penalties through the Department of Building Inspection. At point-of-sale, sellers must disclose and certify compliance. Alarms older than 10 years must be replaced regardless of battery status.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact San Francisco code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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