Kan. Stat. Ann. § 31-161
Same; definitions.
Operative Text
When used in this act: (a) "Dwelling unit" means a single-family residence, multiple-family residence and each living unit in a mixed-use building. (b) "Smoke detector" means a device or combination of devices which operate from a power supply in the dwelling unit or at the point of installation for the purpose of detecting visible or invisible particles of combustion. Such term shall include smoke detectors approved or listed for the purpose for which they are intended by an approved independent testing laboratory.
Kansas statutes §§ 31-160 and 31-161 establish the foundational definitions that govern the state's smoke detector requirements for residential properties. Under these definitions, a 'dwelling unit' covers single-family homes, multi-family residences, and individual living units within mixed-use buildings. A 'smoke detector' is defined as a device powered at the point of installation that detects combustion particles, and must be approved or listed by a recognized independent testing laboratory.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to Kansas statutes §§ 31-160 and 31-161 should understand that these definitions set the scope of the state's smoke detector rules. Compliant operators generally ensure that any smoke detection device installed in a dwelling unit—whether a single-family home, an apartment, or a unit in a mixed-use building—meets the listing or approval standards of an independent testing laboratory. Familiarity with these definitions helps operators determine which properties and which devices fall within the statute's requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Kansas statutes §§ 31-160 and 31-161 define the types of residences and smoke detectors covered by the state's smoke detector law, which includes apartments and units in mixed-use buildings, not just standalone homes. Tenants living in any of these dwelling types may have protections under the broader smoke detector statute that these definitions anchor. Tenants who have questions about whether their unit or their building's smoke detectors meet the statutory definitions can consult a local tenant-rights organization or a housing authority for general information.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 18, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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