Guide to Metro Vancouver’s 2025 Wood-Burning Fireplace Ban
If you live in North Vancouver or West Vancouver and your home has a wood-burning fireplace or stove, a major change is coming: Starting September 15, 2025, most older wood-burning appliances will no longer be permitted for regular use under Metro Vancouver’s Indoor Residential Wood Burning Bylaw.
This bylaw is designed to improve air quality by limiting harmful emissions from residential wood smoke. And yes—it applies to homes throughout Metro Vancouver, including the entire North Shore.
Here’s what you need to know, especially if you currently burn wood, are planning renovations, or are buying/selling a home.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.
What is the Residential Indoor Wood Burning Bylaw?
The bylaw restricts the use of indoor residential wood-burning appliances, such as:
- Traditional open fireplaces
- Wood stoves
- Fireplace inserts
- Other solid-fuel appliances (e.g., pellet stoves)
As of September 15, 2025, you cannot use these appliances unless they meet specific conditions.
What are the rules after September 15, 2025?
After the deadline, you may only use a wood-burning appliance if:
- It is certified (EPA, CSA, or equivalent)
- It is registered with Metro Vancouver
- You use it only during air quality advisory exemptions — i.e., when Metro Vancouver allows temporary use during power outages or emergencies
Uncertified or decorative fireplaces and stoves will not be allowed for regular or seasonal use.
Does this apply to North Vancouver and West Vancouver?
Yes. The bylaw applies to all homes in Metro Vancouver, which includes:
- North Vancouver (both City and District)
- West Vancouver
- All other member municipalities
If your home is on the North Shore and has a wood-burning appliance, it’s subject to the rules.
Are any homes exempt?
Yes, but only under very limited conditions:
- Homes not connected to natural gas and without access to electricity may qualify for exemption (rural or off-grid properties)
- In most residential areas of North and West Vancouver, this does not apply
You’ll still need to apply for exemption status and provide proof.
How Do I Register a Certified Appliance?
If your wood-burning fireplace or stove is certified and you're planning to continue using it under the new restrictions, you’ll need to register it with Metro Vancouver before the September 15, 2025 deadline.
Here’s what to know:
- There is no fee to register.
- To submit online, you’ll need:
- A valid email address
- A working internet connection
- Your appliance's certification information (EPA, CSA, or equivalent)
Metro Vancouver will provide a declaration and registration form via the Residential Indoor Wood Burning System on their website.
If you prefer to register by mail:
- You can request paper forms be mailed to you
- Completed forms must be returned by mail or dropped off (at your own expense) to Metro Vancouver’s office
Can I still install a new wood-burning stove or fireplace?
Yes — but only if it’s certified and installed by a professional with the necessary permits and approvals.
Installing a non-certified or decorative unit will not be allowed for functional use after the bylaw comes into effect. If you’re renovating or building a home in North Vancouver or West Vancouver, be sure your plans comply with both local building codes and the Metro Vancouver bylaw.
What if I only use my fireplace occasionally?
Unfortunately, occasional use is still restricted. After September 2025, uncertified fireplaces and stoves can only be used:
- During power outages
- When Metro Vancouver issues an air quality advisory exemption
Even if you only light your fireplace a few times a year, the bylaw still applies.
What if I'm buying or selling a home with a wood-burning fireplace?
If you're entering the real estate market in North Vancouver or West Vancouver, this bylaw adds important context to property disclosures and buyer expectations.
For Sellers:
You’ll be asked on the Property Disclosure Statement (PDS):
- Has the fireplace, insert, or wood stove been approved by local authorities?
- Has it been inspected by a WETT-certified professional?
Be honest. If you’re unsure, check installation documents or hire a certified inspector. If your fireplace or stove won’t be compliant after 2025, you should disclose this to buyers—especially if it will need to be decommissioned or upgraded.
For Buyers:
When viewing a property with a wood-burning feature:
- Review the PDS carefully
- Ask for certification documents or WETT inspection reports
- Confirm whether it can be used legally after 2025
- Budget for upgrades or removal if necessary
Tip: A fireplace that works today may not be usable at all after the bylaw deadline.
Key Dates to Know
- Now: Learn if your appliance is certified
- Register: Registration is open
- September 15, 2025: Bylaw takes full effect — unregistered and uncertified appliances cannot be used
Why is this happening?
Residential wood burning is a major source of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which poses serious health risks, especially for children, seniors, and people with respiratory conditions. Even occasional fireplace use contributes to poor air quality across the North Shore.
This bylaw is part of Metro Vancouver’s broader plan to reduce regional air pollution and support public health.
Where can I learn more?
For full details, visit the Metro Vancouver Residential Wood Burning Bylaw page.
Have a wood-burning fireplace or stove in North Vancouver or West Vancouver?
Now’s the time to act — get informed, get inspected, and get ready before the 2025 deadline.