New Carbon Monoxide Alarm Rules effective Jan 1-2026

Carbon monoxide alarms

New Safety Requirements Starting January 1, 2026

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless, and deadly gas. Keeping your family safe
means ensuring you have working CO alarms properly installed in your home. New requirements came into effect on January 1, 2026, that expand where CO alarms must be placed in existing homes.

Where Do the New Requirements Apply?
The updated requirements apply to all existing detached or semi-detached houses, cottages and townhouses that have any of the following:
  -A fuel-burning appliance (like a furnace, water heater, or stove that uses natural gas, propane, oil, or wood).
  -A fireplace.
  -An attached garage.
  -Air for heating that comes from a fuel-burning appliance not contained within the home (e.g., an appliance in a utility shed).

Where Must CO Alarms Be Installed?
If your home meets any of the conditions above, you must install a CO alarm in these two locations:
  -Adjacent to each sleeping area (near all bedrooms).
  -On every storey (floor) of your home, including storeys that do not have a sleeping area. 

Who is Responsible for Compliance?
In Owner-Occupied homes, the Homeowner is responsible for complying with the CO alarm requirements in the Fire Code. In Rental Homes, the Landlord is responsible for complying with the CO alarm
requirements in the Fire Code.

For more information on CO alarms contact your local fire department or download the information brochure here.

For more information on fire safety for your home and family visit our fire safety page on our website.