Wood Stove Change Program (WSCOP)
MBARD is excited to offer the residents of Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties an opportunity to participate in the FY 2025-2026 Wood Stove Change Out Program (WSCOP)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY!
Please Note: do not purchase a device until your application is approved (refundable deposits are ok).
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must be low-income households or applicants who reside in low-income or disadvantaged communities as designated by the California Climate Investments Priority Population Mapping Tool 4.0. For applicants who do not reside in a low-income or disadvantaged community, low-income status will be determined by Central Coast Energy Services through their qualification for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
- Disadvantaged Communities -Applicants residing inside of a census tract identified as a SB535 Disadvantaged Community (map) are automatically eligible.
- Low-Income Communities - Applicants residing inside of a census tract identified as a SB1500 Low-Income Community(map) are automatically eligible.
- Low-Income Households - Applicants residing outside of a census tract identified as a DAC or LI Community and are able to demonstrate low-income eligibility based on household income, may also qualify for higher incentives. To demonstrate eligibility, you must be enrolled in the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
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:
| Replacement Heating Device | Incentive Amount |
|---|---|
| Electric | $2,500.00 |
| *Qualified Wood Burning Stove or Fireplace Insert | $2,500.00 |
| *Pellet Stove/Insert | $2,500.00 |
| Ductless Mini-Split Hear Pump | $5,000.00 |
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 09/03/2025 by an authorized installer will be accepted.
- 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.
- 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.**
- Buy - Once you 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 the appropriate Final Building Permit issued 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.**
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.
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.
