Smoke alarms in Spain (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: The national building code requires a fire detection and alarm system in residential buildings only where the evacuation height exceeds 50 m. For lower buildings it lists no such system. Regional and municipal rules were not checked.

RuleWhat applies
Smoke alarm legally required in homesSmoke alarms in dwellings; Residential buildings with an evacuation height of up to 50 mNo [1]
Smoke alarm legally required in homesSmoke alarms in dwellings; Residential buildings with an evacuation height above 50 mYes [1]
Minimum alarms and whereSmoke alarms in dwellings⚠ Not yet verified
Who must fit the alarmsSmoke alarms in dwellings⚠ Not yet verified
Who must keep them workingSmoke alarms in dwellings⚠ Not yet verified
Date the duty applies (existing homes: compliance date)Smoke alarms in dwellings⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • The national building code (Código Técnico de la Edificación, DB-SI, section SI 4) lists no fire detection or alarm system for residential buildings up to 50 m evacuation height. The code governs the design of new buildings and major works. Regional and municipal rules were not checked and may add duties.
  • The table names a fire detection and alarm system for the building. It does not set a duty to fit a smoke alarm in each dwelling.
  • The national building code sets no smoke alarm duty for dwellings in buildings up to 50 m, so no national answer exists for this point. Regional and municipal rules were not checked.

Sources

  1. Ministerio de Vivienda y Agenda Urbana (Código Técnico de la Edificación): Documento Básico SI Seguridad en caso de incendio (versión de 4 de marzo de 2025) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.