How far from a light fixture must a smoke detector be? I am working in Orange County California. I'm installing smoke detectors in each bedroom. I wanted to mount them 18 inch infront of the door but thats within two (2) feet of a light fixture in one room. Is this to close? Am I breaking code. I need to know the fire code but can't find it.

There is nothing in the NEC that specifies distance from a light fixture, but there may be a code in your specific jurisdiction. Ask the local inspector, he'll point you in the right direction.

Electrical Contractor, TX.