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West Allis, WI Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Citation
RMC § 5.10, Fire Prevention Code
Notice period
5 days to fix after notice
1st fine
$25 plus costs
3rd+ fine
$100 plus costs per violation
Backup option
Fire Dept. can install and bill

Summary

West Allis Fire Department enforces the state smoke-detector mandate under RMC § 5.10: if an owner ignores a five-day notice, the department can install detectors or batteries and bill the owner, on top of escalating fines for the violation.

Smoke Detectors. A member of the Fire Department, who obtains information that a smoke detector which is required is not installed or is not functional, shall give notice to the owner as provided in sec. 101.645(3) of the Wisconsin Statutes. If, after five days from the date of the notice, the owner has not complied, the Fire Department may install the required smoke detectors or replace batteries in existing smoke detectors to make them functional. The cost of the Fire Department installing smoke detectors or batteries shall be billed to the owner as set forth in subsection (c)(2). Citation for Violation. In addition to the charges for service set forth in subsections (c) and (d), any West Allis Police Officer is authorized to issue a citation for violations of this section as follows:

First violation in a calendar year $25.00 plus costs Second violation in a calendar year $50.00 plus costs Third and subsequent violations in a calendar year $100.00 plus costs

Automatic Closing Devices. Where Installed. Except on single and two family dwellings, there shall be an automatic closing device on all fire and smoke doors, except doors leading directly outside in all buildings, regardless of size. On all fire shutters and vents. Wired into fire alarm system where fire alarm system is required. How Installed. Per National Fire Protection Association standards and West Allis Fire Department requirements. Automatic Fire Sprinklers. (Reserved)

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: ?).

Full Breakdown

Under Revised Municipal Code § 5.10, part of the West Allis Fire Prevention Code, a Fire Department member who learns a required smoke detector is missing or not working must notify the owner per Wis. Stat. § 101.645(3). If the owner hasn't fixed it within five days, the Fire Department may install the required detector or replace dead batteries itself and bill the owner for the cost. Separately, a West Allis police officer can cite the owner for the underlying violation, with fines that step up for repeat offenses within a calendar year.

Violations & Fines

First violation in a calendar year: $25 plus costs. Second: $50 plus costs. Third and subsequent violations: $100 plus costs, under § 5.10.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who enforces smoke detector rules in West Allis?
The West Allis Fire Department, under RMC § 5.10: it can install a required detector or replace batteries itself if an owner doesn't comply within 5 days of notice.
What's the fine for a missing smoke detector?
$25 plus costs for a first violation in a calendar year, rising to $50 for a second and $100 for a third or later violation, per § 5.10.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in West Allis

All West Allis rules

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