AED Requirements in Vermont
Vermont requires each supervisory union and each approved independent school to keep an emergency operations plan for each school that is at least as comprehensive as the state template, and the template must provide for AED placement and maintenance in each school and clearly marked, easily accessible AEDs at each athletic venue (16 V.S.A. § 1480). School districts and independent schools must have a cardiac emergency response plan ready beginning in the 2026-2027 school year (Act 72 of 2025, Sec. 13).
Vermont AED Law Overview
Vermont requires each supervisory union and each approved independent school to keep an emergency operations plan for each school that is at least as comprehensive as the state template, and the template must provide for AED placement and maintenance in each school and clearly marked, easily accessible AEDs at each athletic venue (16 V.S.A. § 1480). School districts and independent schools must have a cardiac emergency response plan ready beginning in the 2026-2027 school year (Act 72 of 2025, Sec. 13).
Every year, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the United States. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival drops by 7-10%. Having an AED on-site and trained staff ready to use it can mean the difference between life and death.
Whether Vermont mandates AED placement for your organization or not, the investment in an AED program protects your employees, customers, and community — and can significantly reduce liability exposure.
Specific Requirements
- Supervisory unions, supervisory districts and approved and recognized independent schools: an emergency operations plan for each school site, at least as comprehensive as the Vermont School Safety Center template and reviewed every year (16 V.S.A. § 1480)
- School plans, through the template: AED placement and routine maintenance in each school, clearly marked and easily accessible AEDs at each athletic venue where practices or competitions are held, and staff CPR and AED training with drills (16 V.S.A. § 1480)
- School districts and independent schools: a cardiac emergency response plan ready beginning in the 2026-2027 school year (Act 72 of 2025, Sec. 13)
- Anyone who owns, leases or is donated an AED: notify the Department of Health and the regional ambulance or first responder service of its existence, location and type, and maintain and test it to the manufacturer's standards (18 V.S.A. § 907)
Sources
These summaries were last checked against the official sources above in October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Other state or local rules may also apply; check the current law or ask an attorney about your organization.
Who Needs an AED in Vermont?
Offices & Workplaces
Corporate offices, coworking spaces, and business parks
The American Heart Association reports that 10,000 cardiac arrests occur in the workplace each year. Having an AED can increase survival rates by up to 70%.
Schools & Universities
K-12 schools, colleges, and educational institutions
Student athletes and staff are at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Many states now mandate AEDs in schools.
Gyms & Fitness Centers
Health clubs, yoga studios, CrossFit boxes, and recreation centers
Intense physical activity can trigger cardiac events. Most states require AEDs in fitness facilities.
Churches & Places of Worship
Churches, synagogues, mosques, and community halls
Large gatherings of all ages, often with elderly congregants, make AEDs essential for community safety.
Restaurants & Hotels
Restaurants, hotels, resorts, and hospitality venues
High foot traffic and diverse demographics make AEDs critical for guest safety and liability protection.
Construction & Industrial Sites
Construction sites, warehouses, manufacturing plants
Physical labor, heat stress, and remote locations make rapid cardiac response critical.
Sports Facilities
Stadiums, arenas, sports complexes, and athletic fields
Athletes of all ages face cardiac risks during high-intensity activity.
Medical & Dental Offices
Doctor offices, dental practices, outpatient clinics
Even in medical settings, an AED provides immediate response before advanced care arrives.
Vermont AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for Vermont Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
Budget-friendly reliability. Clear audio/visual prompts and rugged design for any environment.
View Details →Vermont AED FAQs
Is an AED required in Vermont?
What are the penalties for not having an AED in Vermont?
Do I need training to use an AED?
How often do AED pads and batteries need replacing?
Does Vermont have Good Samaritan protection for AED users?
Where should I place an AED in my building?
Protect Your Vermont Business Today
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