Tempe Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors Rules (2026)

Tempe's Rental Housing Code (administered by Community Development / Code Compliance) requires smoke detectors in all existing rental housing units, with installation meeting the currently adopted Tempe Building Code (which incorporates the International Residential Code Section R314 and International Building Code Section 907). Required locations include inside every bedroom, in the hallway or area immediately outside each separate sleeping area, and on every story of the dwelling unit (including basements and habitable attics). Wall-mounted alarms must be installed no less than 4 inches and no more than 12 inches from the ceiling; ceiling-mounted alarms must be at least 4 inches from any wall. The owner is responsible for installation, replacing the battery annually if battery-operated, and maintaining records of the required smoke detectors. Upon termination of any tenancy, the owner, owner's agent or manager must verify all required alarms are operational before re-occupancy. Tempe Fire Medical Rescue recommends replacing any alarm older than 10 years from its date of manufacture. For all rental properties statewide, A.R.S. § 36-1637 makes the landlord responsible for installing approved smoke detectors when housing is built or substantially remodeled and for repair after written tenant notice; the tenant is responsible for routine maintenance and testing. Tempe Code Compliance: 480-350-8372.