A cozy, crackling fire has long been a symbol of home – warmth, comfort, and even added property value. But a decade ago, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), responsible for protecting air quality across nine counties, began a controversial effort to regulate wood-burning fireplaces and stoves. So, it shouldn’t have come as any surprise when homeowners complained of the proposed new restrictions.
In 2015, the idea of restrictions felt intrusive, unnecessary, and even unfair. Replacing an old wood-burning stove with a federally certified alternative wasn’t financially viable for many, especially those with limited resources. The resistance was understandable.
Fast Forward to 2025: A Shift in Perspective
Times have changed. As concerns over wildfires, climate change, drought, and air pollution increase, attitudes toward cleaner heating solutions are evolving. What once seemed like government overreach is now being reconsidered as a practical, even necessary, shift.
One major factor? Incentives. The Clean HEET Program
BAAQMD developed the Clean HEET program to address wintertime wood-smoke pollution and improve air quality. Through grant funding, homeowners can remove and/or replace existing wood-burning stoves, pellet stoves, fireplace inserts, or open-hearth fireplaces with electric heat pumps. What was once an elusive idea is becoming a realistic – and appealing – option, especially for communities where gas heating isn’t available.
Here’s what’s available:
- Up to $2 million in funding for homeowners
- $3,000–$10,500 to replace one stove/insert/fireplace
- $6,000–$13,500 to replace two stoves/inserts/fireplaces
- $1,000–$2,000 for decommissioning older, uncertified stoves/fireplaces
All Bay Area homeowners are eligible, but disadvantaged and low-income communities, including parts of West Oakland, East Oakland, Richmond-San Pablo, Bayview–Hunters Point, and other designated areas, receive priority. This includes communities like West Marin that don’t have access to gas lines for heating their homes, or low-income neighborhoods found in Southern Marin, Fairfax, Novato, and San Rafael, all of which are designated on the California Climate Investments Priority Populations Mapping Tool.
The Benefits of Making the Switch
Switching to a clean wood-burning alternative isn’t just about following regulations – it comes with tangible benefits:
- Cleaner Air: Reduces harmful pollutants, benefiting families and communities
- Eco-Friendly Alternative: Electric heat pumps run on cleaner energy sources
- Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps use less energy, lowering long-term costs
A Win-Win for Homeowners and the Environment
A decade ago, homeowners resisted these changes. But today, with increased awareness, financial support, and better technology, the shift is no longer just an obligation – it’s an opportunity.
For those who once viewed fireplace regulations as a burden, this may be the moment to finally warm up to the idea.
The Clean HEET program is now accepting applications, with a firm deadline of April 30th at 5:00 PM PST.