The Burlington Fire Department issued a city news release on December 8, 2025, warning residents that new Ontario Fire Code rules will require carbon monoxide alarms in homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, attached garages, or that are heated by air from a fuel-burning appliance located outside the home, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Under Ontario Regulation 87/25, CO alarms must be installed adjacent to every sleeping area and on every storey of affected dwellings, including storeys without bedrooms. This applies to detached houses, townhouses, apartments, condos and certain care occupancies across Burlington.
“Exposure to carbon monoxide can be deadly, but luckily, it is detectable and preventable,” said Burlington Fire Chief Karen Roche in the city release. She urged homeowners, landlords and tenants to make sure alarms are placed on every level and near all sleeping areas to provide early warnings in an emergency.
Alarms must meet Canadian performance standards (CSA 6.19, ULC, ETL or equivalent) and may be battery-operated, plug-in or hardwired with battery backup. Property owners and landlords are responsible for purchasing, installing and maintaining devices, while tenants must report any problems and avoid tampering.
Burlington offers an Alarm Assistance Program for eligible seniors and people with disabilities who need help installing or testing alarms.
