Smoke Alarms in Dwellings

Olympia- Working smoke alarms significantly improve the chances of surviving a fire as every second counts in an emergency. In 2023, Washington State fire agencies reported that fire fatalities in dwellings without working smoke alarms accounted for 71% of the total residential fire fatalities. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the likelihood of surviving a home fire doubles in a home with working smoke alarms.

In addition to Washington State’s adopted building and fire codes, RCW 43.44.110 regulates smoke detection devices in dwelling units occupied by persons other than the owner on and after December 31, 1981, built or manufactured in this state after December 31, 1980, or sold on or after July 1, 2019.

Provisions stated within RCW 43.44.110:

• Smoke detectors used by residents must meet national standards for design, manufacture, and installation.
• Owners are responsible for installing at least one functioning smoke alarm.
• Tenants are required to maintain and change batteries in the smoke alarms.

Local fire departments, county fire marshals, or other local designated fire officials may enforce penalties of:

• $200 for non-compliance.
• $5,000 if a fire causes property damage, injury, or the death of a tenant.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office encourages everyone residing in Washington State to ensure their dwelling has a working smoke alarm.

For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3904.

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