W. Va. C.S.R. § 87-1-1 et seq. § §87-1-4
Unvented Heaters
Operative Text
§ 87-1-4. Unvented Heaters. 4.1. All unvented fuel fired heaters are prohibited for all occupancies except 1 and 2 family dwellings. Provided, that a single unvented fuel fired heater is permitted for demonstration purposes in authorized mercantile applications when installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. The single heater shall be connected to a permanent source of fuel and shall not be used as a permanent or alternate source of heating. The unvented heater shall be shut off at the end of each business day.
W. Va. C.S.R. § 87-1-4 prohibits unvented fuel-fired heaters in most types of occupied buildings, with the primary exception being one- and two-family dwellings. A narrow additional exception allows a single unvented heater in certain retail settings, but only for product demonstration—not as a regular heat source—and only when it is connected to a permanent fuel supply and shut off at the close of each business day. The rule is designed to limit the safety and air-quality risks associated with unvented combustion appliances in shared or commercial spaces.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating buildings other than one- or two-family dwellings should be aware that W. Va. C.S.R. § 87-1-4 generally bars the installation or use of unvented fuel-fired heaters in those properties. Compliant operators of multi-unit residential buildings ensure that any heating equipment used is properly vented according to applicable standards. Those managing authorized mercantile spaces who wish to use a demonstration unit typically follow the manufacturer's installation requirements, connect the unit to a permanent fuel source, and ensure it is turned off at the end of every business day.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under W. Va. C.S.R. § 87-1-4, tenants living in multi-family or other non-single-family residential buildings have a basis to question the presence of any unvented fuel-fired heater, as such equipment is generally prohibited in those occupancies. Tenants who believe this provision is being violated may consider documenting the equipment present and raising the issue with the appropriate local building or fire code enforcement authority. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with West Virginia housing regulations can help residents understand what options may be available when a potential code violation is identified.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 26, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
Effective Timeline
References In
Rules and statutes that cite this regulation