(a) In new residential dwelling units, smoke detectors shall be hard-wired directly to the building's power supply with a DC battery backup. All wiring shall meet the requirements of N.F.P.A. 70, 72E and 74 and this Building and Housing Code.
(b) In existing residential dwelling units, smoke detectors may be powered by a battery which shall ensure that all of the following conditions are met:
(1) Requirements are met for at least one year of life, including weekly testing;
(2) An audible trouble signal is given before the battery fails due to aging, terminal corrosion or other electrical failure; and
(3) The detector is capable of producing an audible alarm signal for at least four minutes pursuant to Section 1474.02, followed by seven days of trouble signal operation.
The monitored batteries meeting these specifications shall be clearly identified on the unit near the battery compartment.
(Ord. 1996-12. Passed 5-7-96.)