Smoke and CO Detectors
Smoke alarms
Smoke detectors are required in new construction and for interior additions, alterations or repairs.
- See our Residential Smoke Alarms Information Sheet for more information.
They shall be installed:
- In each sleeping room.
- Outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
- On each additional story of the dwelling.
Carbon monoxide alarms
Carbon Monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless therefore it is undetectable without an alarm. Approved and operational CO Alarms are required within 10 feet of each lawfully used sleeping room. CO is roughly the same weight as air and is often accompanied with warm air so it should be placed considerably higher than your floor.
- MN State Fire Marshall - CO Alarms Fire Code handout
- MN State Fire Marshall - About carbon monoxide and alarms
Resources and further questions
- MN State Fire Code and information sheets
- Home owners: contact Fire Prevention (at bottom of page)
- Landlords & tenants: contact Environmental Health (at bottom of page)