Minnesota's carbon monoxide alarm law, and where your alarms must go
Every single-family home and every unit in a multifamily building in Minnesota must have an approved, working carbon monoxide alarm within ten feet of each room lawfully used for sleeping. If bedrooms are far apart, that can mean more than one alarm.
What the law says
Minnesota Statutes section 299F.51 requires that every single-family dwelling and every dwelling unit in a multifamily dwelling have an approved and operational carbon monoxide alarm installed within ten feet of each room lawfully used for sleeping purposes. Hotel and lodging house guest rooms need an alarm in each room used for sleeping.
The statute also says that no one may remove the batteries from a required alarm, or otherwise make it inoperable.
Who is responsible in a rental
In multifamily buildings, the owner must provide and install the alarms, and replace any that went missing or stopped working during a previous tenancy. Where the owner provided the alarm, the occupant must keep it in good repair and replace it if it is removed, stolen or disabled during their stay.
Why it matters for fireplaces and stoves
Carbon monoxide comes from burning fuel: wood, gas, oil or pellets. A blocked flue, a cracked liner or a damaged vent can push it back into the house instead of letting it out. An alarm is the warning; a clear, sound chimney or vent is the prevention. That is one reason the national chimney standard, NFPA 211, calls for chimneys and vents to be inspected at least once a year.
A quick home check
- Walk to each bedroom door and confirm an alarm is within ten feet
- Press the test button on every alarm
- Check the date on the back and replace alarms past their stated life
- Keep alarms clear of furniture and curtains
Quick answers
Do I need a carbon monoxide alarm if I only have electric heat?
The Minnesota requirement applies to every single-family dwelling, not only homes with fuel-burning appliances. An attached garage is another common source of carbon monoxide.
Is one alarm in the hallway enough?
Only if it is within ten feet of every room used for sleeping. Homes with bedrooms on different floors or at opposite ends usually need more than one.
Sources
Have your chimney or vent checked: see chimney inspections or book online.
Fall is the busy season
Fall is when most people remember the chimney. Book your sweep and inspection before the first cold night, not after it.
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