New Fire and Safety Laws in San Francisco
ALERT!
New fire and life safety laws will be taking effect in San Francisco starting January 31, 2017!
In August 2016, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, led by Supervisors Katy Tang and David Campos, passed new legislation to improve fire and life safety standards for apartment units in San Francisco. These laws require San Francisco’s landlords to comply with certain rules when notifying tenants of the frequency of service/maintenance of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and other fire safety equipment. Landlords are also required to notify tenants, orally and in writing, of the safety standards outlined in the ordinances passed by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors (see web links below). Non-compliance with the requirements outlined in the ordinances could lead to daily violations issued to property owners by the San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD). The San Francisco Fire Department and the San Francisco Apartment Association (SFAA) have provided discourse on how to abide by the new legislation. SFAA is providing the required Fire and Life Safety Signs to be posted in the common areas of each floor of any apartment complex or dwelling for a small fee. Below is a list of links you can go to and find more information about what you must do as a landlord, property owner, or property manager to properly comply with these new ordinances.
For a detailed report click here to view aptGroup SF's Market Report. SFFD – New fire safety law outline with disclosure, compliance, and statement forms: Click here. SFAA – Informational packet: Click here. SFAA – Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Disclosure Sign purchase information: Click here. San Francisco Ordinance 163-16 (Fire Safety Requirements for Existing Buildings): Click here. San Francisco Ordinance 165-16 (Disclosure of Fire Safety Information): Click here.
© 2017 by Fried & Williams LLP. All Rights Reserved. The information contained in this article is general in nature. For advice on any particular matter, please consult with our attorneys because the facts of your situation may be unique and the law changes from time to time.
