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Are we required to have one in a standard kitchen with a gas range in a residential home? The big question is not how many CFM or ducted or not, just whether there is a requirement in the building codes. I live in New Jersey, US.

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New Jersey is too localized, per our faq, so I've edited your question to be more broadly applicable. You'll want to check your local building codes if you think there's a reason you can skip this vent. – BMitch♦ Nov 19 '12 at 13:09
This question, specifically this answer might be helpful. – Tester101♦ Nov 19 '12 at 14:24

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Yes, and not only do you need a fan but it must exhaust outside and not just recirculate the air through a carbon filter. You are burning fossil fuels which produces carbon monoxide (among other things). This can kill you if not properly vented.

Rather than repeat what is already on this site, per the comments, see this answer for the exact code requirements for exhaust hoods.

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Since this is a code requirement type question, could you please site (and possibly quote) your source? – Tester101♦ Nov 19 '12 at 14:40
It seems to me that if the issue were CO danger rather than cooking smoke, then there would be a requirement to make the exhaust system automatic, not controlled by the user. We have an outside exhaust, but only use it when frying, etc. But I can see where it would be against code to have it exhaust into the attic, where it would eventually be a fire hazard. – Marty Fried Nov 20 '12 at 18:00
The difference is smoke you can see and smell. People see smoke and they open windows, find the source, call the fire dept, etc. CO on the other hand is colorless and odorless - as a human you have no way of naturally detecting it. And automatically operated exhaust systems are unlikely to be a realistic requirement in home environments. From a code POV, you have the required systems - its up to you to use them. – Steven Nov 20 '12 at 18:39
@Steven The codes in the linked answer do not say that an exhaust fan is required. They say that if one is installed, it must vent outside (aside from the exceptions). – Tester101♦ Nov 20 '12 at 19:54

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