Smoke & carbon monoxide detectors must be installed in accordance with the 2010 California Residential Code (CRC).  All alarms shall comply with requirements for listing and approval by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. 

New Requirement for Smoke Alarm Listings

Smoke Alarms shall be installed in the following locations: 

• In each sleeping room. 
• Outside each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedroom(s).
• On each additional story of the dwelling, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. 

• Smoke alarms should be mounted on the ceiling 4" from the wall, and wall mounts should be 4 to 12" from the ceiling. Do not install near draft areas (windows, vents).

Carbon Monoxide Alarms shall be installed in the following locations:

• Outside of each sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedroom(s).
• On every level of a dwelling unit including basements. 

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips

Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips