Showing ordinances that apply to Watergate, FL
Watergate is an unincorporated community (population 3,459) in Palm Beach County, Florida. Because Watergate is not an incorporated city, it does not have its own municipal code. Instead, Palm Beach County ordinances apply directly to properties here. The smoke detectors rules below are the ones that govern your area.
Smoke alarms are required in all dwelling units in unincorporated Palm Beach County under the Florida Building Code (Residential) Section R314 and FL FS §553.883. Battery-powered alarms must be 10-year sealed lithium type for new installs.
FBC-R Section R314 requires smoke alarms in each sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms, and on every story including basements. FL FS §553.883 (effective Jan 1, 2015) further mandates that any smoke alarm installed solely for compliance and powered only by battery must be a 10-year sealed non-removable battery unit. Existing hardwired interconnected systems may continue with replacement of like kind. Carbon monoxide alarms required by FBC-R R315 in any dwelling with fuel-fired appliances or attached garages. Landlords must ensure operable smoke alarms at tenant move-in under FL FS §83.51 (Landlord-Tenant Act). PBC Fire Rescue offers free smoke alarm installation programs for eligible residents. Short-term rentals must comply with FL DBPR transient lodging fire safety inspection rules.
Code violation under PBC Building Division, plus failure to comply with FL §553.883 may bar issuance of CO. Landlord violations actionable under FL §83.51.
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