Ontario Expands Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements to Every Level of Homes 

25 November 2025

Penetanguishene, ON –– The Ontario government has announced significant changes to the Ontario Fire Code aimed at improving residential safety and reducing carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning incidents. Effective January 1, 2026, all homes in Ontario that contain a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage will be required to have carbon monoxide alarms installed on every storey of the home, in addition to the existing requirement for alarms adjacent to all sleeping areas. 

Carbon monoxide, often called the “silent killer,” is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that can be fatal if inhaled. It is produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, oil, or wood do not burn completely. According to the Technical Standards and Safety Authority, more than 65% of CO-related injuries and deaths in Ontario occur in homes. 

What’s Changing? 

  • Current Rule: CO alarms are required near sleeping areas in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages. 
  • New Rule (Effective Jan. 1, 2026): CO alarms must be installed on every level of the home, including floors without bedrooms. 
  • Applies to single-family homes, townhouses, apartments, cottages, and multi-unit residential buildings. 
  • Homes heated by air from a fuel-burning appliance located outside the dwelling (e.g., in a utility shed) are also included. 

Why the Change? “Carbon monoxide is undetectable without an alarm, and exposure can be deadly,” said Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg. “These new requirements will provide families with the early warning they need to escape safely.”

Homeowner and Landlord Responsibilities 

  • Homeowners are responsible for compliance in owner-occupied homes. 
  • Landlords must ensure alarms are installed and maintained in rental properties. 
  • Alarms can be hardwired, battery-operated, or plug-in, and combined smoke/CO units are permitted. 

Safety Tips 

  • Test alarms monthly and replace batteries annually (or as directed by the manufacturer). 
  • Replace alarms every 7–10 years. 
  • Have fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a licensed contractor. 

For more information on the updated requirements, visit Ontario.ca/CarbonMonoxide or contact our Fire Prevention Inspector:

Matthiew Bonnin

Fire Prevention Inspector

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