Alameda County, CA Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- H&S Code 13113.7
- Required locations
- Each bedroom, hall, floor
- Max alarm age
- 10 years
- New alarms
- 10-yr sealed lithium
- CO alarms
- Required per SB 183
Summary
California Health and Safety Code 13113.7 requires smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of all dwellings in Alameda County. Alarms over 10 years old must be replaced, and new installations must be 10-year sealed lithium battery units or hardwired with battery backup.
(a)(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, smoke alarms, approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 13114 at the time of installation, shall be installed, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions in each dwelling intended for human occupancy. (2) For all dwelling units intended for human occupancy for which a building permit is issued on or after January 1, 2014, for alterations, repairs, or additions exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000), the permit issuer shall not sign off on the completion of work until the permittee demonstrates that all smoke alarms required for the dwelling unit are devices approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal.
Full Breakdown
California Health and Safety Code Section 13113.7 and Title 19 CCR establish smoke alarm requirements enforced locally by Alameda County building and fire officials (including Alameda County Fire Department serving unincorporated areas). All single-family dwellings, duplexes, and multifamily units must have smoke alarms in every bedroom, in the hallway outside each sleeping area, and on every story including basements. As of July 2015, battery-only alarms sold in California must be 10-year sealed lithium models with a silence button. Alarms over 10 years old must be replaced regardless of function. Point-of-sale and transfer of title require seller certification of compliance. Landlords must test and maintain alarms at tenant move-in; tenants must notify landlord of failures. Carbon monoxide alarms are required under SB 183 in all dwellings with attached garages or fuel-burning appliances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace smoke alarms when selling my home?
Who is responsible for batteries in a rental?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Alameda County
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