Frequently Asked Questions

SB-183 is also known as the “Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act.” This senate bill requires that a carbon monoxide (CO) detector be installed in all dwelling units intended for human occupancy.

Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced from heaters, fireplaces, furnaces, and many types of appliances and cooking devices. It can also be produced by vehicles that are idling.

For a single-family dwelling, the effective date is July 1, 2011. For all other dwelling units, the effective date is January 1, 2013.

View the list of approved devices below.

A dwelling unit is defined as a single-family dwelling, duplex, lodging house, dormitory, hotel, motel, condominium, time-share project, or dwelling unit in a multiple-unit dwelling unit building.

They should be installed outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home including the basement. The manufacturer’s installation instructions should also be followed.

There are 3 types:
1. Carbon Monoxide alarms (CSFM category #5276)
2. Carbon Monoxide detectors (CSFM category #5278)
3. Combination smoke / Carbon Monoxide detector (CSFM category #7256 or 7257).

A carbon monoxide alarm is a stand alone unit which is tested to Underwriters Laboratory (UL) Standard 2034 and has its own built-in power supply and audible device. These units are typically installed in your single family dwelling. A carbon monoxide detector is a system unit which is tested to UL Standard 2075 and is designed to be used with a fire alarm system and receives its power from the fire alarm panel.

Yes. SB-183 prohibits the marketing, distribution, or sale of devices unless it is approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal.

The law required that CO devices to be approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal. It does not prohibit someone who already owns the device prior to the effective date of Senate Bill (SB) 183.

Copies of CSFM listing of CO devices can be found on the State Fire Marshal website. Under “Category”, click on the sort by number button, then go to the drop down menu (right down arrow) to select “5276-CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS” or “5278-CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS”. Then Click on “Search” and it will list all CO alarms or detectors that are currently approved and listed by the OSFM.

You may go the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL-FIRE) website.

Questions regarding carbon monoxide devices may be addressed to Deputy Mike Tanaka at 916-445-8533 or mike.tanaka@fire.ca.gov.