Smoke Alarm Technology

In 2017 Massachusetts adopted new regulations regarding the different types of smoke detection technology and how they may be used.

Photoelectric Smoke Alarm

Photoelectric Smoke Detectors

Ionization Smoke Alarm

Ionization Smoke Detectors

Dual Photoelectric and Ionization Smoke Alarm

Dual Photoelectric and Ionization Smoke Detector

Smoke Alarm Requirements


Photoelectric alarms are the only alarms permitted for installation. Ionization alarms are no longer permitted and if present must be replaced. You can check the alarm type by looking at he label on the back of the device.

Combination Smoke / Carbon Monoxide Alarms


The use of combination smoke / Carbon Monoxide alarms is permitted as long as they are placed in accordance with the location requirements for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and the appropriate smoke alarm technology is utilized.  The combination alarm must be Massachusetts approved. (i.e. the alarm must have a voice component that alerts to the type of emergency occurring. Often this is a voice that says: "Fire" or "Carbon Monoxide." Combination alarms that just beep are not compliant.