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Are Smoke Detectors Required in All Buildings in Ohio?

A working and properly installed smoke detector can save lives. According to the Ohio State Fire Marshal, 184 people died in fires in Ohio in 2008. Of those that occurred in homes, only 19 percent had a working smoke detector. While state laws and the building code don't require all buildings in Ohio to have a smoke detector, it does specify certain buildings.

  1. State Laws

    • The use of smoke detectors is only outlined in a few sections of the Ohio Revised Code. Section 3781.104 states that smoke detectors must be placed in every apartment and condominium building more than 75 feet tall. The detectors are required to be installed outside all sleeping rooms. Detectors are also required in nursing homes, adult mental health housing and group homes.

    Building Codes

    • Section 901 of the building code in the Ohio Administrative Code requires smoke detectors to be installed in all new commercial buildings and structures. A building that has an automatic sprinkler system can be exempted.

    Local Laws

    • While the state may not require smoke detectors in all buildings, local municipalities may be different. The city of Columbus, for example, has required smoke detectors in all new dwelling units since 1978.

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