In Montreal, an old wood stove is now a question of compliance as much as comfort. Since October 1, 2018, the City has banned the use of any solid-fuel appliance that is not EPA or CSA certified and exceeds 2.5 g/h of fine particles. If your appliance is non-compliant, you have four avenues: an EPA-certified wood stove, an insert fireplace, a gas conversion, or an electric fireplace. The difference is enormous: an open fireplace emits approximately 100 g/h, compared to less than 2.5 g/h for a certified appliance—a reduction of more than 97%.
Why replace your old wood stove in Montreal?
Because the law requires it and your comfort benefits from it. Within the territory of the City of Montreal, a wood-burning appliance can only be used if it is EPA or CSA B415.1 certified and emits a maximum of 2.5 g/h, a rule that has been in effect since October 1, 2018. An old, non-certified stove must therefore be replaced or rendered inoperable.
Two important nuances accompany the regulation. All solid-fuel appliances must be declared to the City. Furthermore, their use is prohibited during a smog warning, except during a power outage lasting more than 3 hours, when they may then serve as emergency heating.
The impact extends beyond your living room. An open masonry fireplace emits around 100 g/h of fine particles, while a certified appliance remains under 2.5 g/h. For the approximately 241,000 Quebec households that still heated with wood in 2019 (Natural Resources Canada), replacement changes the neighborhood air as much as the wood bill.
What is an EPA-certified appliance in 2026?
It is an appliance that complies with the American NSPS 2020 standard, in effect since May 15, 2020: 2.0 g/h of fine particles for the crib wood test, or 2.5 g/h for the cordwood test. In Quebec, CSA B415.1 certification is recognized as equivalent by the City of Montreal.
These appliances also heat better. Their secondary combustion burns the gases that used to go up in smoke, allowing you to draw more heat with approximately 50% less wood. Installed in old masonry (often homes from 1940 to 1975), a certified insert fireplace cuts up to 85% of cold air infiltration when it is turned off.
How to check if your appliance is compliant
Three simple steps are enough. Locate the nameplate on the back of the appliance, where a certified stove displays its emission rating and certification. Next, consult the EPA’s public list of certified appliances. If in doubt, especially for an appliance purchased before 2010, have it confirmed during an expert assessment. Most old slow-combustion stoves from before the 2000s fail the test.
What are your certified replacement options?
Four paths are available to you depending on your attachment to wood fires, the condition of your chimney, and your budget.
| Option | For whom | Key takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| EPA-certified wood stove | Those who value the wood flame | Up to 50% less wood. Brands: Stûv, Regency, Spartherm, Valcourt. |
| Insert fireplace | Masonry to be modernized | Cuts up to 85% of cold air infiltration. |
| Gas conversion | Zero chores, heat via remote control | Works even during a power outage. Natural gas or propane. |
| Electric fireplace | Condos without vents | No venting required, allowed in co-ownerships. |
In co-ownerships, replacement almost always requires the approval of the syndicate. This is a matter our team handles, from evaluation to documentation, via our condo compliance service.
How much does replacement cost and are there subsidies available?
The cost depends on the type of appliance, the condition of the vent and masonry, lining work, and certified labor. An appliance installed in a sound vent costs significantly less than a project requiring reconstruction. A reliable estimate requires an in-home assessment.
Regarding financial aid, let’s be precise: replacing a wood appliance with another wood appliance is generally not subsidized in Montreal. However, if you take advantage of the project to convert your wood heating to a heat pump or an electric solution, Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program may apply. Amounts change from year to year, so validate your eligibility when planning your work.
How does a compliant replacement with Noréa work?
The replacement follows five steps, from the free in-home assessment to the delivery of compliance documents.
- Free in-home assessment: evaluation of the installation, the vent, and heating needs.
- Selection of the EPA or CSA certified appliance adapted to the space, decor, and budget.
- Verification of the vent and masonry, with lining if necessary.
- Certified installation, compliant with the Régie du bâtiment du Québec.
- Commissioning and delivery of compliance documents, useful for the City, the syndicate, and the insurer.
It all starts with a free in-home assessment.
On the ground: a non-compliant stove replaced on the South Shore
In a 1970s home in Saint-Hubert, near our South Shore showroom, the owners were still heating with an old slow-combustion stove, non-certified and now banned from use. The masonry vent was sound, but cold air rushed in as soon as the fire went out. Rather than demolish everything, our Technical Project Managers installed an EPA-certified insert fireplace in the existing hearth, with a suitable stainless steel liner. Emissions dropped below 2.5 g/h, cold air infiltration practically disappeared, and heat diffuses longer with less wood. All in one day.
Hesitating between keeping wood or switching to gas? Compare the two in our gas vs. wood fireplace guide. And if the fire ritual follows you into the yard in summer, Mughet designs outdoor fireplaces and kitchens.
FAQ
Is my old wood stove still legal in Montreal?
It can only be used if it is EPA or CSA B415.1 certified (2.5 g/h or less), and has been since October 1, 2018. A non-certified stove is banned from use, except during a power outage lasting more than 3 hours.
What is the difference between 2.0 and 2.5 g/h?
These are the two thresholds of the EPA 2020 standard: 2.0 g/h for the crib wood test, 2.5 g/h for the cordwood test. Both comply with the Montreal ceiling.
Can I keep my chimney and masonry?
Often, yes. A certified insert fits inside with a connection liner. The condition of the vent is validated during the assessment.
Is the replacement eligible for a subsidy?
Wood to wood: generally no. Conversion to electric or a heat pump: possibly eligible for the LogisVert program. Validate the conditions at the time of the project.
How long does installation take?
Generally one day if the vent is in good condition. Masonry or lining work can extend the timeline.
Ready to bring your heating up to code? Request your free in-home assessment.
