MN State Fire Code Requirements

Minnesota State Fire Code Requirements:

• In homes built prior to March 31, 2003. Smoke detectors must be installed in hallways or areas which provide access to each separate sleeping area.
• In homes built on or after March 31, 2003. A smoke detector must be installed in each sleeping room in addition to a point centrally located in the corridor or area providing access to each separate sleeping area. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed in a single family home, the smoke alarms must be interconnected so that the activation of one alarm will activate all the alarms in the home.
• In homes constructed prior to August 1, 1989. Smoke detectors may be battery powered only.
• In homes constructed on or after August 1, 1989 and before March 31, 2003. Smoke detectors must hard-wired to the home's permanent primary wiring, without a disconnecting switch. When new bedrooms are created, the detector in the new bedroom must receive its primary power supply from a centralized power source and be equipped with a battery backup.
• In homes constructed on or after March 31, 2003. Smoke detectors must receive their power from the home's permanent primary wiring when such wiring is served from a commercial source and be equipped with a battery backup.
  • Smoke detector location and spacing must be as follows, in addition to the manufacturer's instructions:
    • Smoke detectors must be mounted on the ceiling at least 4 inches from a wall or on a wall with the top of the detector not less than 4 inches, or more than 12 inches, below the ceiling.
    • A smoke detector installed in the basement must be located in close proximity to the stairway leading to the floor above.
    • Smoke detectors must not be installed within kitchens, garages, or in other spaces where temperatures can fall below 32 degrees F, or exceed 100 degrees F.
    • Smoke detectors must not be located within 3 feet of supply registers of a forced air heating or cooling system, and doors to a kitchen or bathroom with a tub or shower.
    • For peaked ceilings, the smoke detector must be installed within 3 feet of the peak.