New provincial rules for carbon monoxide alarms take effect in January

The Ontario Fire Code is being updated with new rules that will take effect from January 1, 2026.

Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms will now be required on every story of a home in addition to being placed near sleeping areas.

This rule will apply to any homes that have fuel-burning appliances (or are heated by fuel-burning appliances located outside the home), a fireplace, or an attached garage.

CO alarms will also require more extensive placement in multi-unit residential buildings, including in public corridors, service rooms, and some suites.

Residential care facilities will also require more widespread use of CO alarms.

More information is available on the Ontario government website.