How to resolve AdBlock issue? There is $135,000 available for residents of Lake County who want to replace an uncertified wood stove or fireplace insert with a new, EPA-certified wood, electric or gas device.
The Woodsmoke Reduction Pilot Program is a voucher program supported by the California Climate Investments Program and administered by local air districts.
This program provides vouchers to replace non-EPA certified wood-burning stoves and fireplace inserts with an EPA-certified woodstove or insert, or a natural gas, propane, or electric heating device. A wood-burning fireplace used as a primary source of heat may also qualify.
For certain communities designated by the state and for low-income households, the vouchers may cover the entire cost of the replacement (up to $8,000).
After all the low-income applications are processed or after 2 months of the start of the program, a standard voucher of $2,500 is available to all households that want to upgrade to a 2020 compliant woodstove or cleaner device, and $1,500 for a standard EPA certified device. (If funds are still available, the standard vouchers will be issued)
Homeowners and tenant occupied residential homes are eligible. Tenant applicants must obtain owner approval prior to receiving a voucher.
The program will begin accepting applications on Oct. 15. Applications are available at the Lake County Air Quality Management District office: 2617 S. Main St., Lakeport, or by emailing Fahmy Attar at
Vouchers will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis, and expire four weeks from the date they are issued.
Within the four weeks, the applicant must shop around from the list of participating retailers, select a replacement device and give the voucher to the retailer. Installation is not required to be completed within four weeks.
Vouchers are only good at participating retailers and for installations done by licensed contractors; do-it-yourself installations are not allowed under this program. Installations must meet local fire and building codes.
The participating retailers as of Oct. 9 is Loving’s Fireplace Service, Ryan and Karen Loving, License # 918430 Bonded and Insured, 4613 Lakeshore Blvd., Lakeport, telephone 707-263-1900, www.lovingsfireplaceservice.com.
Additional retailers may be added and the list and will be updated at www.lcaqmd.net.
For more information on the program or to find out if your household resides in an Enhanced Voucher Incentive community, contact the Lake County Air Quality Management District at 707-263-7000.
