New York State Wood Stove Installation Requirements

New York State Laws

• The State of New York complies with federally mandated programs regarding the installation and types of wood stoves that can be used. This includes compliance with emission standards as set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Clean Air Act. In 2011, outdoor wood boilers, used in rural areas to heat homes and barns, were banned in New York. The state is actively involved in tightening emissions standards for all wood-burning appliances, including the sales and installation of wood stoves. Owners should make it a practice to stay abreast of impending changes to laws and regulations.

New Wood Stove Models

• All new wood stove models sold in retail stores in New York must be on the list of EPA-certified, "Phase Two" wood stoves. This means the model meets the latest EPA standards for energy efficiency and smoke emissions. Check by looking on the back of the stove for the EPA label. It will list the date of manufacture and the smoke emissions rating, which details the number of grams per hour of smoke that the stove emits. As long as the stove has the EPA label, you can be assured that it is EPA certified.

Installing and Retrofitting Old Stoves

• Prior to purchasing an older stove, consult with a professional stove installation expert and a chimney technician. They can advise you about what will be required to bring the stove up to code. This will also help you plan your budget for installation costs to make the stove operable. Buying a stove from a junkyard or an unknown source is not advisable, unless you only want to use it for decorative purposes. The restoration and retrofitting can end up costing more than purchasing a new stove.

Chimneys, Stovepipes and Wall Clearance

• All chimneys, stovepipes and flues installed for use with wood stoves must meet all building code and fire safety ordinances. To make sure that your wood stove complies with New York regulations, have it installed by a professional. Stove and chimney installers are trained, and required to stay up-to-date on all current and impending changes in regulations. This person will also know which types of fittings you will need for the chimney and stovepipe, and how much wall clearance you will need between the back of the stove and the wall. Also, ask the dealer and installer about New York requirements for heat shields for the back of the stove and hearth pads on the floor. The requirements will differ based on the size and weight of the model you select.

Permits

• Local municipalities and boroughs have the authority to set additional regulations in regard to permits, building codes, zoning and safety standards. These local ordinances are designed to protect the health and safety of residents. Some are enacted based on the types of housing that is most common in the area, or because of a major fire and loss of life. For example, you cannot use a wood stove in apartment buildings in Brooklyn in New York City, but you can use one in a single-family home in upstate New York, or even in a residential community closer to New York City, such as Croton-on-the-Hudson.