Walnut Creek, CA Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

California Health & Safety Code Section 13113.7 requires smoke alarms in all dwelling units. Placement standards adopted by Walnut Creek through the California Building Code require alarms inside each sleeping room, in the hallway outside each sleeping area, and on every floor including basements. For homes built or significantly remodeled after January 1, 2014, alarms must be hardwired with battery backup and interconnected so that activation of one alarm sounds all of them. Battery-only replacement alarms installed after July 1, 2015 must use a non-removable 10-year sealed lithium battery and be State Fire Marshal-listed. Carbon monoxide alarms are required under Health & Safety Code Section 13262 in any dwelling with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage. Landlords must provide functioning alarms at the start of tenancy and test them between tenants; tenants are then responsible for routine battery replacement and notifying the landlord of defects. Sellers must disclose smoke/CO alarm compliance on the Real Estate Transfer Disclosure Statement. ConFire may inspect during complaint response.