Scottsdale Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors Rules (2026)

Arizona Revised Statutes 36-1637 mandates that an approved smoke detector be installed during construction of every new residential housing unit, and that smoke detectors be added when an existing sleeping area is remodeled under a building permit. The statute makes the tenant responsible for keeping the device operable, but once a tenant gives the landlord written notice of a malfunction, the landlord must make the repair; landlords must also notify tenants of these duties in writing. Scottsdale enforces the 2021 International Fire Code as adopted by Ordinance 4562 and codified in Chapter 36 of the Scottsdale Revised Code (SRC); IFC Section 907.2.11 generally requires smoke alarms in each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms, and on every story including basements. Short-term/vacation rentals licensed under Ordinance 4566 (SRC 18-175) must additionally post a 14-point bold, laminated notice on the inside of the front door and the primary backyard door identifying the location of fire and life-safety equipment, including smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Confirm exact placement and any local amendments with Scottsdale Fire & Life Safety Inspections at 480-312-1855.