Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector Permits and Inspections

Ensuring that homes have properly installed and functioning smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors is one of the most effective ways to protect lives in the event of a fire or a dangerous CO leak. The Sandisfield Fire Department administers permits and inspections to confirm that residential properties meet both Massachusetts state law and local safety standards.

When a Permit and Inspection Are Required

A Smoke and CO Detector Permit and subsequent inspection are required in the following situations:

• When selling or transferring ownership of a residential property. Massachusetts law requires that prior to the sale or transfer of a residence, the local fire department must inspect the home’s smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and issue a Certificate of Compliance if the detectors meet current code requirements. Massachusetts Government+1

• When installing new detectors as part of new construction.

• When renovating or adding new living spaces that affect existing detector systems (for example, adding bedrooms).

• When replacing or upgrading existing detectors with newer or updated systems.

State Law Requirements

Under Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 148, Sections 26F and 26F½, the seller of a residential property must ensure that approved smoke and CO alarms are installed and that the property is inspected for compliance before a sale can close. Massachusetts General Court+1

 

For the sale or transfer of a home, smoke and CO detectors must meet Massachusetts requirements for location, type, and functionality. The requirements vary based on the age of the home and whether substantial renovations have occurred, but typically include working smoke alarms on every level, in sleeping areas, and near exits, and CO detectors on each level including basements. Massachusetts Government

 

Upon passing inspection, the Fire Department will issue a Certificate of Compliance, which is often required by real estate professionals and lenders as part of closing documents. Certificates generally have a limited validity period (often 60 days) and must be current at the time of sale. Massachusetts Government

 

What the Inspection Includes

During a Smoke and CO inspection, a Fire Department representative will:

• Verify that smoke alarms are installed in required locations throughout the home.

• Confirm that carbon monoxide alarms are present on required levels and within 10 feet of sleeping areas. Massachusetts Government

• Check that alarms are functioning properly and are not expired (most smoke alarms are expected to be replaced after 10 years). Massachusetts Government

• Ensure that detectors comply with Massachusetts code standards based on the age and configuration of the home.

How to Apply

Smoke and CO permits and inspection requests are submitted electronically through the Fire Department’s Community Connect portal. Applicants must create an account to access and submit the required forms and schedule an inspection.

Planning Ahead

If you are selling your home or scheduling renovations, contact the Fire Department early in the process to avoid delays. Inspections should be requested with enough lead time to allow for any corrective work to achieve compliance prior to closing or final building approval.

Need Assistance?

If you have questions about Smoke and CO Detector permits, setting up your Community Connect account, or preparing for an inspection, please contact:

Michael Grillo, Fire Chief
Email: firechief@sandisfieldma.gov

The Fire Department is available to assist you through the permit and inspection process to ensure your property meets safety and compliance standards.