Details for Smoke Dectector Requirements

SMOKE DETECTOR REQUIREMENTS

Houses built before 1975:

One smoke detector on each level, installed on the ceiling of each stairway leading to the floor above, near the base of, but not within each stairway.

One smoke detector outside each separate sleeping area.

Each detector cannot cover more than 1200 sq. ft.

Battery powered or AC powered.

Houses built between 1975 and 1997:

One smoke detector on each level, installed on the ceiling of each stairway leading to the floor above, near the base of, but not within each stairway.

One smoke detector outside each separate sleeping area.

Each detector cannot cover more than 1200 sq. ft.

AC powered and all detectors must be interconnected to all sound if one is activated.

Houses built after 1997 or any major remodel:

One smoke detector on each level, installed on the ceiling of each stairway leading to the floor above, near the base of, but not within each stairway.

One smoke detector outside each separate sleeping area.

One smoke detector in each bedroom.

Each detector cannot cover more than 1200 sq. ft.

AC powered with battery back-up and all detectors must be interconnected to all sound if one is activated.

Proper type: Photoelectric ONLY if detector is within 20 feet of a kitchen or within 20 feet of a bathroom containing either a tub or shower. Photoelectric or ionization allowed throughout the rest of the house.

Additional Notes:

Heat detectors are NOT required until 1/1/08; however, if installed they must be tied in with the smoke detectors and all sound if one is activated.

With split levels without an intervening door between the levels, a smoke detector at the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.

M.G.L. Ch. 148 sec. 59 requires ALL dwellings have the house number affixed so that it is visible from the street.

For further questions or to schedule an inspection please call the Building Inspector’s office at 508-627-6115. The fee for this inspection is $50.00, payable to the Town of Edgartown.