12/03/2025
West Virginia State Law Requires Carbon Monoxide Alarms
We are sending this critical reminder because of recent carbon monoxide poisoning incidents across the country!
West Virginia Code 15A-10-12 sets clear requirements for where carbon monoxide alarms must be installed and how they must be powered. This is State Law. Compliance is mandatory for homeowners, landlords, facility operators, schools, and anyone who installs or services fuel-burning appliances.
Where Carbon Monoxide Alarms Are Required by Law
1. Newly constructed residential units with fuel-burning appliances
Any new home or residential unit with an oil or gas furnace, stove, or any other fuel-burning device must have an AC powered carbon monoxide alarm with a battery backup.
2. Existing residential units connected to new construction that contains fuel-burning appliances
If a residential unit is attached to a newly constructed garage, storage shed, barn, or similar structure that contains a fuel-burning appliance, that residential unit must have a compliant carbon monoxide alarm.
3. Multi-unit and group living facilities
Alarms are required in common areas or in all sleeping rooms directly above, below, or adjoining areas containing fuel-burning appliances. This applies to:
• Apartment buildings
• Boarding houses
• Dormitories
• Long-term care facilities
• Adult or child care facilities
• Assisted living facilities
• One and two family dwellings intended for rent or lease
• Hotels and motels
4. Hardwired requirements for new construction
All newly constructed facilities listed above must have hardwired AC powered alarms with battery backup.
5. Long-term care facilities with 24-hour staffing
These facilities must place alarms where staff can clearly hear them at all times.
6. Schools and daycares
Every public or private school and daycare with any fuel-burning heating system or device must have alarms installed in each area where that equipment is located.
Requirements for Installers and Technicians
• Anyone installing a carbon monoxide alarm must inform the owner or occupants of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and explain the operation of the alarm.
• Anyone performing repair or maintenance on fuel-burning heating or cooking sources must inform the occupants of the dangers and recommend installing an alarm if one is not present.
Penalties and Enforcement
Violating this law is a criminal offense. These laws are enforced by Fire Marshals in their role as Law Enforcement Officers.
• First offense: misdemeanor with a $250 fine
• Second offense: misdemeanor with a $750 fine
• Third and later offenses: misdemeanor with a $2,000 fine
Carbon monoxide is deadly. These alarms save lives.
If you own or operate a building covered under this law, you are responsible for ensuring alarms are installed, maintained, tested, and powered according to manufacturer instructions and state law.
If you see something that appears to be a violation of fire or life-safety code, you are encouraged to report it to your City Fire Marshals Office or the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Reporting Saves Lives.
— Fire Marshals Association of West Virginia
