California law requires smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of dwellings in Santa Clara. Carbon monoxide alarms are also mandatory.
Under California Health and Safety Code 13113.7 and 13113.8 and the California Residential Code, single-family and multi-family dwellings in Santa Clara must have operational smoke alarms inside each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level including basements. Alarms installed or replaced after July 1, 2014 must be 10-year sealed battery units or hardwired with battery backup, and must be listed by the State Fire Marshal. Carbon monoxide alarms are required under the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act in every dwelling with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or an attached garage. Landlords must test and maintain alarms at tenant change of occupancy. New construction and substantial remodels triggering a building permit must hardwire alarms with interconnect.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Santa Clara County handle smoke detectors.
See how Santa Clara's smoke detectors rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.