Uniform Fire Code

N.J.A.C. 5:70-2.3(a), and N.J.S.A. 52:27D-198.1

(a) Before any Use Group R-3 structure is sold, leased, or otherwise made subject to a change of occupancy for residential purposes, the owner shall obtain a certificate of smoke alarm, carbon monoxide alarm, and portable fire extinguisher compliance (CSACMAPFEC), evidencing compliance with N.J.A.C. 5:70-4.19, from the appropriate enforcing agency.

Smoke Detector Requirements

Occupancy built prior to 1977 – 10 year sealed battery in the area of the bedrooms.

Occupancy built between 1978 to 1981 – One electric smoke detector in the area of the bedrooms.

Occupancy built between 1981 to 1984 – Two electric smoke detectors not interconnected, one near the top of the basement stairs, one near the bedrooms.

Occupancy built between 1984 to 1987 – One electric smoke detector, each level, interconnected.

Occupancy built after 1990 – One electric smoke detector, each level, in each bedroom, interconnected, with battery backup.

Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements

Carbon monoxide detectors are required in the vicinity of all sleeping areas. The detector shall be installed outside of the bedrooms within 10 feet of the rooms. Detectors may be battery, plug-in, or hardwired. Detectors shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

N.J.S.A. 52:27D-198.1.

The requirements for the type and placement of the extinguishers are as follows:

1) At least one portable fire extinguisher shall be installed in all one- and two-family dwellings (except seasonal rental units) upon change of occupancy;

2) The extinguisher shall be listed, labeled, charged, and operable;

3) The size shall be no smaller than 2A:10B:C, rated for residential use and weigh no more than 10lbs;

4) The hangers or brackets supplied by the manufacturer must be used, and must be installed with the operating instructions clearly visible.

5) The extinguisher must be located within 10 feet of the kitchen; 6) The top of the extinguisher must not be more than 5 feet above the floor;

7) The extinguisher must be visible and in a readily accessible location, free from being blocked by furniture, storage, or other items;

8) The extinguisher must be near a room exit or travel path that provides an escape route to the exterior; 9) The extinguisher must be accompanied by an owner’s manual or written information regarding the operation, inspection, and maintenance of the extinguisher;

9) The extinguisher shall be serviced and tagged by a certified Division of Fire Safety contractor within the past 12 months or the seller must have a receipt for a recently purchased fire extinguisher.