Section 9-103 - Construction of new residential dwelling units. - Maryland Statutes

§ 9-103. Construction of new residential dwelling units.
 

(a)  Minimum number of smoke detectors.- At least one smoke detector shall be installed on each level, including a basement but excluding an attic, of each new residential dwelling unit: 

(1) that contains alternating current (AC) electrical service; 

(2) that is classified residential, as defined in the most recent edition of the National Fire Protection Association Life Safety Code adopted by the State Fire Prevention Commission; and 

(3) for which a building permit is issued for new construction on or after January 1, 1989. 

(b)  Activation of multiple smoke detectors.- If two or more smoke detectors are required under subsection (a) of this section, the smoke detectors shall be of a type and installed in a manner so that activation of one smoke detector causes activation of all other required smoke detectors in the residential dwelling unit. 

(c)  Operation by battery and electric power.- A smoke detector required under this subtitle shall operate both by battery and on an alternating current (AC) primary source of electric power if the smoke detector is installed in a new residential dwelling unit: 

(1) that contains alternating current (AC) electrical service; 

(2) that is designed to be occupied by one or more families; and 

(3) for which a building permit is issued for new construction on or after July 1, 1990. 

(d)  Enforcement of section; enactment of more stringent laws.- This section: 

(1) may be enforced by a county fire chief, fire administrator, or municipal fire chief; and 

(2) does not prevent a county from enacting more stringent laws that relate to smoke detectors. 
 

[An. Code 1957, art. 38A, § 12A(n)-(q); 2003, ch. 5, § 2.]