The Bay Area's 2029 furnace rule, explained
From January 1, 2029, only zero-NOx furnaces can be sold or installed in the Bay Area. A working gas furnace does not have to come out. Here is what that means for your Oakland home.
What the rule says
In March 2023 the Bay Area Air District amended its Rule 9-4 for natural gas furnaces. From January 1, 2029, furnaces sold or installed in the nine-county Bay Area must meet a zero-NOx standard. In practice that means heat pumps and other electric heating.
The rule applies when a furnace is replaced. It does not require you to remove a furnace that still works.
A related rule, Rule 9-6, covers water heaters. On November 4, 2026 the Air District Board moved the residential water heater date to January 2028 and added exemptions.
What to do now
Your options depend on the age and condition of the furnace you have.
- Furnace is working well
Keep it maintained. The rule does not force a replacement.
- Furnace is old or failing
Replacing it with a new gas furnace is still allowed before January 1, 2029. A heat pump is the other option.
- You want cooling too
A heat pump heats and cools, and it already meets the zero-NOx standard.
- You have a wall heater or floor furnace
Ask us what applies to your unit. A ductless mini split is the usual electric replacement.
When does the Bay Area gas furnace rule start?
January 1, 2029. From that date only zero-NOx furnaces can be sold or installed in the Bay Area Air District.
Do I have to remove my gas furnace in 2029?
No. The rule applies when a furnace is replaced. A working furnace can stay.
Can I still install a new gas furnace in Oakland?
Yes, until January 1, 2029.
What changed for water heaters?
On November 4, 2026 the Air District Board moved the residential water heater zero-NOx date to January 2028 and added exemptions.
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