Wood-Stove-Change-Out-Program
Wood Stove Change Out Program
Apply to the Wood Stove Change Out Program Here
Please Note: do not purchase a device until your application is approved (refundable deposits are ok).
MBARD is excited to offer the residents of Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties an opportunity to participate in the 2023-2024 Wood Stove Change Out Program (WSCOP).
Wood smoke contains many different harmful air pollutants, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants can cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, cancer and are the leading environmental cause of premature death.
Using wood burning heating devices (fireplaces, fireplace inserts or woodstoves) also affects local and regional air quality and contributes to global warming.
In an effort to reduce these pollutants from wood burning smoke, the Monterey Bay Air Resources District (MBARD) is providing rebates for homeowners who replace their wood burning heating devices with a cleaner home heating device option.
INCENTIVES:
PM2.5 emission ratings not to exceed 2.0 g/hr
Any replacement wood or pellet burning device in the Pellet, Catalytic or Hybrid categories MUST be on the current EPA Certified list below:
Current EPA Certified Wood Stoves List
Any replacement device in the Non-Catalytic category of wood burning devices must be on the MBARD Approved list below:
MBARD Approved Non-Catalytic Wood Stoves List
The Wood Stove Change Out Program offers the following rebate incentives towards the replacement of functioning open hearth fireplaces, woodstoves and wood burning inserts (manufactured prior to July 1988 and used as a primary heat source) with one of the following heating devices:
| CONVERT TO | Standard Rebate Incentive | Enhanced Low Income Incentive |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | $2,500 | $5,000 |
| *Qualified Wood Burning Stove or Fireplace Insert | $2,500 | $5,000 |
| *Pellet Stove / Insert | $2,500 | $5,000 |
| Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump | $5,000 | $10,000 |
PROCESS REQUIREMENTS:
STEPS MUST BE FOLLOWED IN ORDER. If a device is purchased and/or installed prior to receiving an APPROVAL EMAIL, your incentive will be forfeited.
Step:
- Review the program information on the webpage then click the ONLINE APPLICATION for specific instructions to apply..
- Shop - Do Not Buy Yet - shop around and select your replace device. Make sure you know the make, model, efficiency, PM2.5 emissions (for wood burning devices) and cost. Only refundable deposits up to 50% of the purchase price are allowed.
- Installer Estimate - Now that you know what device you want to purchase, schedule a visit with an approved Installer to verify your current device qualifies and receive an installation estimate (needed for the application). Only estimates completed on or after 12/14/23 by an uthorized installer will be accepted.
- Obtain - Obtain the required city, county or state permit for the installation of the new device. **ALL projects participating in this program are REQUIRED to get a permit by their local jurisdiction. Building Departments can be found here. The replacement device must be permanently installed by a professional, appropriately licensed dealer approved by MBARD for this program. Self-installation of heating devices is not allowed.**
- Apply - Go on to our website and submit your application
- Receive Approval Email - Once your application is approved you will receive an approval email. SAVE THIS EMAIL. It includes a link you will need it for Step 7.
- Buy - Once you will receive an Approval email, purchase your device and schedule the installation of your new device..
- Upload - Find your APPROVAL EMAIL and use the link at the bottom of the email to upload all required documents and photographs.
**ALL projects participating in this program are REQUIRED to obtain a permit by their local jurisdiction. Building Departments can be found here. The replacement device must be permanently installed by a professional, appropriately licensed dealer approved by MBARD for this program. Self-installation of heating devices is not allowed.**
Double ($2,500/$5,000) Enhanced Low Income Eligible Incentive
Disadvantaged Communities - Applicants residing within a census tract identified as an SB535 Disadvantaged Community (map) are automatically eligible for an enhanced incentive.
Low-Income Communities - Applicants rediding within a census tract identified as an SB1500 Low-Income Community (map) are automatically eligible for an enhanced incentive.
Low-Income Households - Applicants residing outside of a census tract identified as a Disadvantaged Community or Low-Income Communtiy and are able to demonstrate low-income eligibility based on household income, may also qualitfy for the Enhanced Low-Income Incentive.
To demonstrate eligibility:
- You must be enrolled in one of the following programs: LIHEAP, HUD, Emergency Rental Assistance Program, WIC, CalFresh/SNAP or TANF.
- Submit an approval letter, a yearly recertification or a statement of benefits dated within the past 12 months from your application date.
Additional Resources:
Federal Tax Credit:
Check if your wood burning stove or insert is already EPA certified:
Tips on how to burn cleaner (YouTube videos):
- Five Rules to Follow for an Efficient Fire
- Wet Wood is a Waste: How to Test Your Firewood with a Moisture Meter
For more information, visit the wood stove pages on the EPA and CARB webpages and checkout the California Air Resources Board Handbook.