Brookline One of First Communities in MA to Adopt New Fossil Fuel Regulation on New Construction

Brookline pushes forward with new, environmentally friendlier building codes.

Minimalist illustration of Brookline buildings combining classic brownstones with modern architecture, surrounded by trees in muted beige and green tones.

Brookline and Watertown became the first communities to adopt the new building code regulations put forth by the state Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources. The new code includes strict parameters for energy efficiency, with requirements such as solar panels in new constructions buildings that plan to install gas line connections. It also requires new constructions buildings to be “fully pre-wired” for electrification. This would allow future owners to easily change gas-powered appliances and water heaters for electric versions.

The main goal of the regulations is to address the usage of fossil fuels for heating homes, which is one of the state’s largest sources of emissions, and promote the electrification of space and water heat. At this time, the code will only apply to new construction properties in cities and towns that choose to adopt it.

In addition to Brookline and Watertown, it is expected that Cambridge, Wellesley, Arlington, Acton, Belmont, Concord, and Lincoln may adopt the new regulations in the near future.

  • About Elad Bushari

    Elad Bushari is an Executive Vice President at Compass and a leading Brookline, Massachusetts real estate agent with over $1 Billion in career sales and 22+ years of experience. He represents buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants and developers across Brookline's most sought-after neighborhoods, including Coolidge Corner, Fisher Hill, Chestnut Hill, Washington Square, and Brookline Village. A former Inc. 5000 founder and REALTOR® Magazine "30 Under 30" honoree, Elad specializes in luxury single-family homes, condominiums, and multi-family investments throughout Greater Boston. His data-driven approach and deep local knowledge help clients navigate Brookline's competitive market with confidence.
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