Waltham enforces Massachusetts smoke and carbon monoxide detector laws under MGL c.148 s.26F. Detectors are required in all homes and must be inspected by the Fire Department before any property sale.
Massachusetts has one of the most rigorous smoke and CO detector laws in the nation, enforced in Waltham by the Fire Prevention Bureau. Under MGL c.148 s.26F, all residential dwellings built before 1975 must have battery-operated or hardwired smoke detectors on every level, and newer homes must have hardwired interconnected detectors. CO detectors are required under MGL c.148 s.26F-1/2 on every level with sleeping areas and within 10 feet of bedrooms. Before any 1-2 family home is sold or transferred, the seller must obtain a Smoke and CO Detector Certificate of Compliance from the Waltham Fire Department, requiring an inspection (typically 50 dollars fee). Inspections verify placement, age (detectors over 10 years must be replaced), and operation. Rental units must also comply, and landlords are responsible for installation and maintenance.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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