San Francisco Could Require Major Home Renovations to Ditch Natural Gas
San Francisco is weighing a new rule that would phase out natural gas in homes undergoing major renovations. Currently, the proposal is moving through the city’s legislative process, and it is part of a broader plan to cut emissions while shifting homes toward all‑electric systems. If approved, the rule could take effect in mid‑2026. Moreover, city leaders see the measure as a natural step after the 2020 decision to ban natural gas in new construction. Since residential buildings are responsible for roughly 40 percent of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions, officials say that addressing older homes is essential to meeting climate goals.
Which Renovations Would Be Affected
The rule targets large renovation projects, including those that open up most walls or ceilings, change key structural supports, or replace central heating, cooling, or water systems. Homeowners taking on this type of work would need to switch from gas to electric appliances, and many may need to update their electrical panels to handle the change. Big additions that involve new utility lines would also fall under the requirement.
Expanding the City’s Existing Ban
San Francisco already requires new buildings to be all‑electric, a rule in place since 2021. The proposed expansion would bring major renovations under the same standard, focusing on older properties that still rely on gas. City staff estimate the move could prevent about 45,000 metric tons of emissions each year, roughly one percent of the city’s total output.
Balancing Health, Cost, and Feasibility
Supporters of the proposal point to two benefits: lower carbon emissions and cleaner indoor air. Gas stoves and furnaces release pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and benzene, which can affect respiratory health. The plan includes exceptions for projects where full electrification isn’t technically possible, as well as for some affordable housing and food‑service properties.
Critics warn that the rule could increase renovation costs, especially in older homes that require electrical upgrades. Some worry that extra expenses might discourage owners from completing important safety or seismic work. To avoid legal challenges, the city wrote the ordinance to comply with federal appliance regulations, a lesson learned from Berkeley’s blocked gas ban.
What Happens Next
The proposal is under review by the Land Use and Transportation Committee. The full Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on it in September 2025. If approved, the rule would take effect in July 2026, giving property owners time to plan for electrification.
San Francisco is pushing to bring older homes in line with its climate policies by requiring major renovations to go electric. Supporters see the plan as a way to reduce emissions and improve air quality, while opponents worry about the added cost and complexity for homeowners. The final decision later this year will show how the city balances climate goals with the realities of updating its housing stock.
More…
- https://www.axios.com/local/san-francisco/2025/07/30/sf-natural-gas-ban-building-renovations-climate
- https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/natural-gas-ban-renovations-20776228.php
- https://www.apnews.com/article/san-francisco-legislation-california-54b72cd64426c64ef16471705b69eae4
- https://www.overheresf.com/delta-co-pilot-and-woman-charged-with-multiple-felonies-in-child-sexual-abuse-case/
