Remodeling Before You Sell? Here's SF's New Electric Rule
Starting July 1, 2026, San Francisco has a new rule that could affect your remodel plans — especially if you're planning anything beyond a standard kitchen or bath refresh.
Here's the quick version, no jargon.
What's Actually Changing
San Francisco passed an ordinance (No. 174-25) last September that requires certain major renovations to go all-electric — meaning heating, hot water, cooking, and clothes dryers all need to run on electricity instead of gas.
But before you panic: this doesn't apply to most projects.
When Does This Actually Kick In?
Two things have to be true at the same time:
You're doing serious construction — a major addition, a gut renovation, or significant structural changes.
You're also upgrading your heating or hot water systems in a substantial way.
Only when both boxes are checked does the all-electric requirement apply.
You're probably fine if you're doing:
A standard kitchen or bath remodel
Swapping out a water heater or furnace
Paint, flooring, staging, landscaping
Any of the usual pre-sale prep work
This is more likely to affect you if you're:
Adding significant square footage
Doing a down-to-the-studs remodel
Opening up large portions of the home
Replacing major heating/hot water systems as part of bigger work
So no — this isn't a citywide gas ban. It's aimed squarely at the bigger projects.
What Should You Do Before Swinging a Hammer?
Start with your goal. Are you selling soon and want minimal investment? Trying to maximize sale price with a bigger remodel? Updating for yourself? The right scope of work depends entirely on what you're trying to accomplish.
Then figure out if your project touches the trigger points. Ask: does this work involve heating, hot water, electrical capacity, structural changes, or added square footage? If yes, this ordinance needs to be part of your planning conversation — and your budget.
Loop in the right people early. A contractor, architect, permit consultant, or SF's Department of Building Inspection can tell you definitively whether your project crosses the line. This is worth confirming before you're deep into permits and demo.
In summary, if you're doing normal pre-sale prep — paint, flooring, a routine kitchen or bath update — this rule almost certainly doesn't touch you.
If you're planning something bigger — an addition, a major systems upgrade, a full gut job — it's worth a conversation before you commit to a scope of work or a budget.
Either way, we’re happy to help you think through what actually makes sense for your property and your goals, and connect you with the right contractor or permit expert to get a straight answer.
This post is a general overview, not legal, architectural, or permitting advice. Rules and interpretations can change — confirm current requirements with SF's Department of Building Inspection or a qualified professional before starting work.