Question: What are the requirements for smoke detectors?

Answer: Smoke detectors are required in every dwelling within the State of Illinois. The Lincoln Fire Department is required to enforce state law regarding the placement of smoke detectors in dwellings with rooms for sleeping through code enforcement and fire prevention. In working with the City of Lincoln’s Building and Safety Office all new construction is required to install electric (AC) smoke detectors that work in-line with each other.

Here are some guidelines for smoke detector compliance:

• Place smoke detectors within 15 feet of rooms for sleeping.
• Install smoke detectors at least 6 inches from the ceiling and any intersecting walls.
• Have at least one smoke detector installed on every story, including the basement.
• If the smoke detectors are battery powered, change the batteries twice a year.
• Both ionization and photoelectric smoke detectors are approved for use.
• Replace battery-powered smoke detectors every 5 years and replace AC-powered detectors as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Practice fire safety drills in the home and test the smoke detectors monthly.

The Lincoln Fire Department can help with home safety inspections and test your smoke detectors upon request.