What removal involves
- Disconnecting and hauling away the stove and stovepipe
- Capping or sealing the chimney or thimble
- Patching the wall or ceiling penetration if needed
- Optional: replacing it with a pellet or gas insert
What can usually stay
According to Missoula Public Health, commercially manufactured pellet stoves, masonry fireplaces and ducted wood-fired furnaces are among the devices that may remain at sale. Whether your specific stove must be removed depends on its certification and location. Missoula Public Health’s woodstove map shows the status for individual properties. Always confirm with them. The seller, buyer and agents are responsible for compliance, and the paperwork is filed with the county.
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for removing the stove, the buyer or the seller?
The requirement is triggered by the sale, and buyer and seller usually negotiate who handles it. Ask your real estate agent and confirm the requirements with Missoula Public Health.
Can I replace the removed stove?
Inside the Air Stagnation Zone, only pellet and gas appliances can be installed. A gas or pellet insert is a common replacement.