New Smoke Alarm Rules Take Effect April 5th, 2010

The Board of Fire Prevention Regulations has approved an emergency amendment to 527 CMR 32 Approved Smoke Detectors. This regulation applies to residential units undergoing sale or transfer of buildings containing up to five residential units. The regulation, which was scheduled to go into effect January 1, 2010, has been moved to April 5, 2010.

The regulation requires photoelectric smoke detectors within 20 feet of a kitchen or bath containing a shower. Areas located beyond 20 feet will be required to contain dual detection by either a single unit or two separate units.

In addition to the date change the regulation has been clarified to indicate it applies to residential units constructed prior to January 1975 that have not undergone major alteration covered by the State Building Code. It also contains a provision for low voltage household warning systems that may have been installed in these homes.

The Division of Fire Safety (formerly the Office of the State Fire Marshall) offers a brochure press release which explain the new regulation: “A Guide to the Massachusetts Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Requirements When Selling a One– or Two-Family Residence” and a press release “Revised Smoke Alarm Regulations.” The Division of Fire Safety also notes that your local fire department may be able to provide detailed guidance regarding compliance with the new regulation.