(a) In all new one, two or three-family dwellings, a smoke detector shall be installed outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms and on each additional story of the dwelling, including basements, but excluding crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. All detectors shall be connected to a sounding device or other detectors to provide, when actuated, an alarm which will be audible in all sleeping areas. Required smoke detectors shall receive their primary power from the building wiring when such wiring is served from a commercial source. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than those required for overcurrent protection. All smoke detectors shall have a secondary source of power from a battery.
(b) In all existing one, two or three-family dwellings, smoke detectors shall be installed outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms and on each additional story of the dwelling, including basements, but excluding crawl spaces and unhabitable attics. Smoke detectors with battery- powered supply are permitted, as are detectors that receive their primary power from the building wiring when such wiring is served from a commercial source. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than those required for overcurrent protection. AC-powered smoke detectors shall have a secondary source of power from a battery. All battery-powered detectors shall have a built-in protection to warn of battery failure.
(c) Installation of smoke detection devices in existing homes shall be accomplished within six months of passage of this section.
(d) All required installed smoke detector units shall be visually and audibly inspected every six months by the owner or his or her agent.
(e) All battery-powered smoke detectors shall have their battery replaced with a new battery every six months.
(f) All required installed smoke detectors shall be maintained in proper working order at all times by the owner of such unit or units or his or her representative.
(g) All required smoke detectors shall be U.L. listed or shall be approved, listed or labeled by an agency approved by the Fire Chief or his or her designate.
(h) All required smoke detectors shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
(i) If the requirements of this section are in conflict with any other code, law or ordinance, then the provision which establishes the higher standard for the promotion and protection of the safety and welfare of the public shall prevail.
(j) When practical difficulties are encountered in complying with this section, the Fire Chief or his or her designate shall be permitted to modify the requirements of this section, provided that the spirit and intent of the law are observed, that public welfare and safety are assured, and that the modification meets or exceeds the requirement of this section.