Building in Lexington, MA: What the New Gas Ban and Energy Code Mean for Your Custom Home

What You Need to Know About the Town’s Gas Ban and Energy Code

If you’re planning to build a custom home in Lexington, Massachusetts, you’ve likely heard about the town’s new fossil-fuel-free bylaw and updated energy code. These changes are reshaping how new homes are built — especially for homeowners who care about comfort, performance, and long-term efficiency.

At Westview Homes Development, we specialize in guiding clients through Lexington’s modern building requirements, from energy compliance to high-performance design. Here’s what every homeowner should understand before starting construction.

Can You Still Use Gas in New Construction in Lexington, MA?

No. Under Lexington’s Regulation of Fossil Fuel Infrastructure Bylaw (Chapter 106), new construction and major renovations cannot include new fossil-fuel piping inside the home.

That means no natural gas for heating, water heaters, cooking, or fireplaces. The only two exceptions are for outdoor gas uses (like grills, fire pits, or pool heaters) and for backup gas generators used solely for emergency power.

Once your home is complete and occupied, it’s considered an existing home — but the town does not allow homeowners to add gas later. Any new interior gas piping would be treated as a violation of Lexington’s bylaw.

Lexington vs. Other Massachusetts Towns

While Lexington has fully banned gas for new construction, nearby towns like Burlington and Weston have adopted the Massachusetts Specialized Stretch Energy Code. That version allows mixed-fuel homes only if fossil fuel use is offset with solar or pre-wiring for full electrification.

In short: Lexington is all-electric. Burlington and Weston still allow mixed-fuel homes if you meet additional solar or offset requirements.

Lexington’s stricter approach positions it as one of Massachusetts’ leaders in Net Zero-ready homebuilding — homes designed to produce as much energy as they consume.

How Builders Are Meeting Lexington’s All-Electric Requirements

Today’s Lexington homes aren’t just code compliant — they’re high-performance, efficient, and designed for comfort. Builders like Westview Homes are using advanced systems that replace traditional gas-driven design with all-electric technologies.

Examples include:

    •    Heat Pumps (Air or Ground Source) – Replace furnaces and AC with one efficient system, providing zoned comfort and lower bills.

    •    ERV or HRV Ventilation Systems – Bring in fresh air while exhausting stale air, keeping the home efficient and healthy.

    •    High-Performance Windows and Glazing – Reduce heat loss and noise for a more comfortable interior.

    •    Enhanced Insulation and Air-Sealing – Improve thermal performance, reduce drafts, and stabilize indoor temperature.

    •    Solar-Ready Roof Design – Make it easy to add solar panels now or in the future.

These upgrades help achieve Lexington’s Net Zero goals while improving comfort and lowering long-term energy costs.

Cost Impact and Long-Term Value

Building to Lexington’s new standards typically adds around 5–10% in upfront construction cost. But these homes deliver lasting value — lower energy bills, better air quality, and higher resale prices.

Over time, all-electric homes often cost less to operate than traditional builds, especially with available rebates through Mass Save and federal incentive programs.

Why Fresh Air Systems Matter

Modern homes are built to be extremely airtight, which is great for efficiency but can trap stale air. An Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) helps a home “breathe” properly — it brings in filtered outdoor air, removes indoor air, and transfers heat and humidity between them. The result is fresh, clean air without energy loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use propane or gas for a fireplace or cooking in Lexington?
No. The bylaw prohibits new fossil fuel piping indoors. Gas fireplaces and stoves are not allowed in new construction.

What if I add solar panels?
Solar is encouraged but does not change the gas ban. All new homes must still be fully electric.

Can I still use gas for my grill or pool heater?
Yes. Outdoor gas appliances are allowed under the bylaw’s limited exemptions.

What about major renovations?
If your renovation replaces 50% or more of the building systems or structure, it’s treated as new construction under the bylaw.

Building in Lexington with Confidence

At Westview Homes Development, we design and build high-performance custom homes that meet Lexington’s new sustainability standards while maintaining your vision for design and comfort.

We manage the entire process — engineering, permitting, energy compliance, and finish selection — so your project moves forward efficiently and transparently.

If you’re planning to build or redevelop in Lexington, we’d be happy to help you design a home that meets every code requirement and exceeds every expectation.