Air Quality Rebate (AQR) Program

This program encourages the removal of existing non-certified wood-burning appliances, which generate high levels of pollution.



Sponsoring agency: Town of Golden
Type of agency: Local government

Program offerings

The Air Quality Rebate (AQR) Program was established to improve air quality in Golden. The purpose of this program is to encourage the removal of existing non-certified wood-burning appliances, which generate high levels of pollution. In order to qualify for the Air Quality Rebate Program, a new certified appliance must be purchased at a business operating with a valid business license issued by the Town of Golden and the wood burning, propane or electric appliance must be installed in a house located within the Town of Golden limits. Rebates incentive of up to $500 to replace older woodstoves with new CSA/EPA-certified units. Rebates given on a first come first served basis and it is available throughout the year until the Program Funding is exhausted. The Rural Golden Program will be available until funding is exhausted.

Eligibility

  • Contact John Mirehouse, Building Inspector at the Town Office at 250-344-2271 ext.231, or Ron Oszust, Area Director, at 250-344-5933, to determine your eligibility for the AQR Program. The Building Inspector will meet you on site to inspect and make a record of your existing appliance that is to be replaced or removed.
  • When purchasing a new EPA certified wood-burning appliance, (i.e. wood or pellet stove, fireplace, and insert) make sure the unit conforms to CAN/CSA-B415.1 Standard “Performance Testing of Solid-Fuel-Burning Stoves, Inserts, and Low-Burn-Rate Factory-Built Fireplaces” in accordance to the Environmental Management Act. These appliances must also conform to CAN/CSA-B365-M Standard “Installation Code for Solid-Fuel Burning Appliances and Equipment” in accordance with the BC Building Code.
  • Ensure that your installer is trained and certified in compliance with the Wood Energy Technical Training (WETT) program. Upon completion, your installer is required to provide a copy of their WETT Certificate and a letter (see also Application for AQR Program) confirming that your new EPA certified appliance has been installed and meets all standards (see above) and the BC Building Code requirements.
  • If you are replacing your existing appliance with a propane or electric appliance, you are required to ensure that your installer is trained and certified by the Province of British Columbia in compliance with the Gas or Electrical Safety Act. Upon completion, your installer is required to provide a copy of their Trade Certificate and a letter (see also Application for AQR Program at the Town office) confirming that your new appliance has been installed and meets the Gas or Electrical Safety Act and the BC Building Code requirements.
  • Gather the manufacturer’s and installation specifications for the new EPA certified wood-burning appliance (including chimney or venting information), or your new propane or electric appliance, and make a building permit application (obtain at the Town office) to the Building Inspector.
  • A building permit must be issued prior to removal of the existing appliance and before installation of the new appliance. After a building permit is issued, the work can commence.
  • The old non-certified wood-burning appliance must be decommissioned and properly disposed of by an authorized contractor to the satisfaction of the Building Inspector (Contractor is required to fill out section on the Application for AQR Program).
  • Upon completion, make arrangements with the Building Inspector for a final inspection, so he can inspect and record information regarding your new appliance. Provide the Building Inspector with a copy of your installer’s Trade or WETT Certificate along with a letter of confirmation.

Application procedure

Submit the Air Quality Rebate Program application (or obtain at the Town office) and supporting information to the Building Inspector so your rebate can be processed.
Contac:t
John Mirehouse
Town of Golden
810 S- 9th Avenue, Box 350
Golden, BC
V0A 1H0



Contact information

Telephone: 250-344-2271; ext 231
Email: building@town.golden.bc.ca
Website: Town of Golden


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