Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements in California

In May 2010, the state of California enacted a law requiring home owners to install carbon monoxide detectors in their homes.

Starting Dates

California residents must have carbon monoxide detectors in their homes as of July 1, 2011. This applies only to single-family homes that have appliances that burn fossil fuels or homes that have attached garages or fireplaces. For all other types of housing, such as apartments and hotels, detectors should be in place as of January 1, 2013. Kinds of fossil fuels include wood, gas and oil.

Carbon Monoxide Detector

The detector must sound an audible warning once carbon monoxide is detected. It must be powered by a battery, or if it is plugged in, have a battery as a backup. The detector also must be certified by national testing labs, like the Underwriters Laboratories.  If the CO detector is also a smoke detector, it must meet the above standards and must sound an alarm that is different than the smoke alarm. Carbon monoxide detectors typically can be purchased for about $20 and up.

Exemptions

Although the law targets units that are occupied by humans, the law exempts state and local government property, as well as property owned by the University of California Regents. The law requires local jurisdictions to comply; however, they may amend their current ordinances to fall more in line with the law.

Fines

California law states that anyone who does not comply with the law may face a $200 fine. However, residents will receive a notice of 30 days to correct any violations before they will be fined.