East Rochester, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 157 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 157-3
Standards for detectors; audible alarms
Operative Text
A. Smoke detectors and heat detectors shall have Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. or FM Global listings. Smoke detectors shall be of the ionization or photoelectric type, capable of sensing visible or invisible particles of combustion. Detectors sensitive only to heat are not acceptable except in certain areas. Smoke detectors and/or heat detectors shall be capable of producing a suitable, audible alarm having a minimum rating of 85 dBA at 10 feet and also a visible or audible signal when the fire detection system (i.e., the fire control panel box and/or the individual smoke detector units) is not operating properly. B. Suitable audible alarm. Each detection device shall cause the operation of an alarm which shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed. The tests of audibility level shall be conducted with all household equipment in operation. Also, all alarm-sounding devices must have a minimum rating of 85 dBA at 10 feet.
Section 157-3 of East Rochester's Code of Ordinances establishes technical standards for smoke and heat detectors installed in residential properties. Detectors must carry Underwriters' Laboratories (UL) or FM Global listings, and smoke detectors must be of the ionization or photoelectric type. The rule also requires that alarm signals reach at least 85 dBA at 10 feet and remain clearly audible in all bedrooms—even with doors closed and household appliances running—and that the system produce a visible or audible alert when it is malfunctioning.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under East Rochester Code ch. 157 § 157-3 generally ensure that every installed smoke or heat detector carries a UL or FM Global listing and that smoke detectors are specifically of the ionization or photoelectric type. Compliant operators verify that alarm devices meet the 85 dBA at 10-foot minimum rating and conduct audibility tests with all household equipment running and bedroom doors closed to confirm the alarm is clearly heard throughout the unit. Maintaining documentation of detector model certifications and periodic audibility test results is a common practice among operators seeking to demonstrate ongoing compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under East Rochester Code ch. 157 § 157-3, tenants have an interest in knowing that their smoke and heat detectors must meet specific certification and audibility standards—including being clearly audible in bedrooms with doors closed and appliances on. If detectors appear to lack UL or FM Global markings, fail to sound loudly enough, or do not signal when the system is malfunctioning, these may constitute violations of this provision. Tenants who believe their unit does not meet these standards can document the concern in writing to their landlord, contact the local code enforcement office, or reach out to a tenant-rights organization for guidance on available options.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 9, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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