St. Petersburg, FL Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- FL §553.883
- Placement
- Every level and bedroom
- Replacement
- 10-year sealed battery
- New Builds
- Hardwired interconnected
- Free Program
- SPFR Smoke Alarm Program
Summary
Smoke alarms are required in all St. Petersburg dwelling units under the Florida Building Code and FL §553.883. Rentals must have working alarms on every level, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas.
553.883 Smoke alarms in one-family and two-family dwellings and townhomes. — One-family and two-family dwellings and townhomes undergoing a repair, or a level 1 alteration as defined in the Florida Building Code, may use smoke alarms powered by 10-year nonremovable, nonreplaceable batteries in lieu of retrofitting such dwelling with smoke alarms powered by the dwelling’s electrical system. A battery-powered smoke alarm that is newly installed or replaces an existing battery-powered smoke alarm as a result of a level 1 alteration must be powered by a nonremovable, nonreplaceable battery that powers the alarm for at least 10 years. The battery requirements of this section do not apply to a fire alarm, smoke detector, smoke alarm, or ancillary component that is electronically connected as a part of a centrally monitored or supervised alarm system; that uses a low-power, radio frequency wireless communication signal; or that contains multiple sensors, such as a smoke alarm combined with a carbon monoxide alarm or other multisensor devices, and is approved and listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
Full Breakdown
FL §553.883 requires every single-family, two-family, and multi-family dwelling to have smoke alarms installed in compliance with NFPA 72. Alarms must be on every floor, inside each sleeping room, and in the hallway outside sleeping areas. New construction and substantial renovations require hardwired, interconnected alarms with battery backup. Since 2015, FL law requires 10-year sealed battery alarms for replacement of battery-only units. Landlords must provide working alarms at the start of each tenancy; tenants are responsible for maintenance during occupancy. St. Pete Fire Rescue runs the Smoke Alarm Program offering free alarm installation to qualifying residents.
Violations & Fines
Landlord failure to provide working alarms: code enforcement and potential civil liability. Tampered or removed alarms in rentals: lease violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does St. Pete Fire Rescue install free smoke alarms?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in St. Petersburg
Florida rules heatmap·Compare St. Petersburg to another location·View the Florida fire regulations overview
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