Regulatory Updates

Amanda's Law

Amanda’s Law is named after Amanda Hansen, a teenager whose life was tragically ended by a carbon monoxide leak from a defective boiler while she was sleeping at a friend’s house in January 2009. This law (Chapter 367 of the Laws of 2009) amended section 378 of the Executive Law regarding the standards for the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in homes and other dwellings, including any multiple dwelling. Amendments were made to the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and State Building Code (NYS Fire Prevention and Building Code) to allow implementation. Based on these changes, carbon monoxide detectors will be required in most homes effective February 22, 2010. Programs located within New York City are subject to a different set of codes and have been required to be in compliance with a similar requirement passed in 2004. 

In order to comply with Amanda’s Law, a minimum of one carbon monoxide detector must be installed in every home where there is a carbon monoxide source, defined as any appliance or system that may emit carbon monoxide, a fireplace, or a building with an attached garage, or other motor vehicle related occupancies.  Per the amended NYS Fire Prevention and Building Code, in existing residences (constructed before 1/1/08) with a carbon monoxide source, a carbon monoxide detector must be installed on the lowest story having a sleeping area.  Because the areas used for napping in Family Day Care and Group Family Day Care are often not on the floor where the provider’s family sleeps, it is highly recommended that one unit be installed on each floor of the residence on which there is either a sleeping area or carbon monoxide source.  This recommendation is based on the requirements in place for new construction and is made in consideration of promoting the safety of both children in care as well as the families of providers. 

In existing homes constructed prior to January 1, 2008, battery-operated units are acceptable and are not required to be interconnected. Homes constructed after that date should already have hard-wired, interconnected systems, as required by code. 

If you have additional questions regarding the number of units needed, please contact a Fire Safety Representative at your Regional Office.

ALBANY REGIONAL OFFICE: (518) 402-3038

>>Read the Governor's Press Release Regarding Amanda's Law