Water Heater Decarbonization & the Future of Small Development: Turning Change into Opportunity
Beginning in January 2027, new rules will phase out the sale of residential NOx-emitting water heaters in the Bay Area. These changes, adopted by the Bay Area Air District under Rule 9-6, are designed to reduce pollutant emission and promote healthier air quality, and shape how housing projects are designed, permitted, and delivered across the region.
Build It Green invites housing owners, developers, and builders to an in-person session on Tuesday, April 7 to explore what Rule 9-6 means in practice. Together, we will review:
The Rule 9-6 timeline and where it applies
What the phase-out means for current and future projects
Proposed exemptions under consideration, including those intended
to reduce burdens on smaller projects and housing serving lower-income households
Timeline for exemption approval and how to provide comment at the Air District’ May Board meeting.
This gathering is designed as a space for direct dialogue between the small development community and the Air District,. It will include time to discuss the proposed exemptions within the context of small development projects and provide feedback.
The timing of this session is intentional. As the Air District prepares for its May Board Meeting, this conversation offers an opportunity to surface insights, identify practical considerations, and help shape the next phase of decision-making.
If you are designing, developing, owning, or building housing in the Bay Area, this is an important moment to engage.
Join us to learn, connect, and contribute to the future of small-scale housing in a changing regulatory landscape.