Permit for the installation of a heat pump or air conditioner in Boucherville
Introduction: thermal comfort in accordance with the law
In Boucherville, enjoying a pleasant indoor climate, summer and winter, requires not only a good heating or air conditioning system, but also strict compliance with municipal regulations. Any installation of a heat pump , wall-mounted air conditioner , ventilation system or other outdoor mechanical device is subject to specific standards , both in terms of noise and positioning and permits .
At AirGreen , we know that a successful HVAC project relies on two pillars: unit performance and regulatory compliance . That's why we offer you here a complete guide on the permits required in Boucherville , the procedures to follow , the documents to provide , as well as the sound and architectural requirements to be met before any installation.
Why is a permit required in Boucherville?
The requirement to hold an installation permit for any HVAC device stems from the City's desire to ensure:
-
the safety of occupants and buildings;
-
the preservation of the urban and heritage framework ;
-
reducing noise pollution in residential areas;
-
the aesthetic coherence of exterior fittings;
-
and the good environmental integration of the equipment.
Any heat pump or air conditioner installed without authorization can cause sound insulation, drainage or location problems, or even violate zoning regulations. A permit guarantees that your installation complies with minimum distances , permitted heights , heritage regulations of Vieux-Boucherville , and acoustic standards imposed by the City.
Applicable permit types
1. Building permit for HVAC appliances
Any owner wishing to install, replace or move an air conditioning, ventilation or heat pump unit must obtain a residential building permit .
This permit applies to:
-
single-family homes;
-
multiplex housing (duplex, triplex, etc.);
-
condominiums;
-
two-family or two-generation residences.
2. Certificate of authorization for commercial or mixed-use buildings
Businesses, offices, institutional or industrial buildings must submit a request for a certificate of authorization . This document aims to ensure that mechanical installations comply with minimum distances , noise levels and urban planning requirements specific to the area .
3. Additional permits depending on the nature of the project
Depending on your situation, other authorizations may be added:
-
Permit for balcony, shelter or awning : when the device is fixed to an existing or newly constructed structure.
-
Demolition permit : if an accessory building must be removed before installation.
-
Tree permit : in the event of felling a tree to clear the space needed for the heat pump.
-
Heritage authorization (PIIA) : mandatory in Vieux-Boucherville and in certain subject areas.
The permit application process in Boucherville
Step 1 – Preparation of the file
First of all, you need to gather the following documents:
-
Property layout plan clearly indicating the intended location of the outdoor unit;
-
Manufacturer's technical data sheet (model, power, noise level in dBA, dimensions);
-
Recent location certificate or any document demonstrating the configuration of the land;
-
Photographs of the building and the facade;
-
Power of Attorney if a third party (such as AirGreen) files the application for you.
Plans must be submitted in PDF format and at the original scale . A simple photo of a paper plan is not accepted.
Step 2 – Submitting the application
You can submit your file:
-
online, via the City of Boucherville permit portal ;
-
or in person at the Urban Planning Department , located at 500, rue de la Rivière-aux-Pins.
An agent will analyze your request and send you an official invoice (payment is not automatically generated online).
The cost of a permit for a residential air conditioner or heat pump is $70 , taxes included.
Step 3 – Analysis of the file
The City verifies:
-
the conformity of the unit's positioning (distances, locations, orientation);
-
compliance with zoning by-law 2018-290 , chapter 8 (mechanical devices);
-
compliance with nuisance regulations 2008-112 (maximum noise level);
-
the possible presence of a PIIA or a heritage sector .
The processing time is 30 days from the moment the file is complete . An incomplete application is automatically suspended until receipt of the missing documents.
Step 4 – Issuance of permit and execution of work
Once the permit is issued, you can proceed with the installation. The permit remains valid for 18 months , and a single six-month extension can be granted if the work is not completed.
Location and positioning: what the City requires
Every property in Boucherville is located in a dominant zone (residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, ecological, or mixed). Requirements vary slightly depending on the zone, but some general rules apply to all:
-
Installation on the ground, on the wall or on a balcony : each configuration is permitted, but the distances to the limits must be respected (front, rear and side).
-
Maximum height : the device must not exceed the guard line or sill of a window.
-
Minimum distance : generally 1.2 meters from the side or rear line and 2 meters from any window opening.
-
Equipment visible from the street : obligation to integrate a visual screen or a landscaped fence to conceal the device.
-
Drainage : Condensation discharge must not affect the neighborhood or flow towards the sidewalk.
Special requirements in Old Boucherville
The Vieux-Boucherville sector is recognized as a heritage site . Any intervention visible from the street—including the addition of a wall-mounted heat pump—must be authorized by the Urban Planning Advisory Committee (CCU) and meet aesthetic conservation criteria.
Owners must provide:
-
photographic documents detailing the facade and the fittings;
-
integration plans specifying the exact position of the device;
-
and, in some cases, prior approval before official filing.
AirGreen recommends contacting the urban planning department before any request , in order to confirm whether your building is affected by these obligations.
Noise control: an essential aspect
The City's nuisance regulations prohibit any noise exceeding 50 decibels (dBA) measured at the property line in a residential area.
Here are the thresholds to know:
-
Residential and commercial areas : 50 dBA maximum at the boundary of the property;
-
Industrial areas adjacent to residential areas : also 50 dBA;
-
Industrial areas far from residential areas : 60 dBA.
Noise levels above these values constitute an offence and may result in a fine and an obligation to correct the installation (installation of a screen, replacement of the device, addition of an acoustic barrier, etc.).
To avoid any risk of non-compliance, AirGreen recommends:
-
to choose a heat pump or air conditioner certified as quiet (below 50 dBA in normal mode);
-
to install the unit on the courtyard side rather than on an exposed facade;
-
to use anti-vibration mounts ;
-
and to provide, if necessary, a discreet acoustic screen made of weather-resistant materials.
Permit deadlines, validity and extensions
-
Standard validity period : 18 months.
-
Single extension : 6 months (on request before expiry).
-
Automatic cancellation if work does not begin within 12 months of delivery or if it is interrupted for more than one year.
-
Immediate expiration if work is modified without prior approval.
Compliance with deadlines is crucial: an expired permit requires the submission of a new, complete application .
After the work: final compliance
Once the installation is complete, keep carefully:
-
your copy of the permit ;
-
technical documents provided by the installer (sound sheet, electrical compliance certificate, photos);
-
and, where applicable, the updated location certificate .
The City may conduct an on-site inspection to confirm compliance. If discrepancies are found, a corrective notice may be issued.
Common mistakes to avoid
-
Starting work without a permit – fine and obligation to stop work.
-
Provide an incomplete file – the 30-day period only begins once the documents have been received.
-
Forgetting the audio record – a common oversight that can prevent the license from being issued.
-
Install the device on the front without a visual screen – risk of refusal or correction.
-
Ignoring the heritage constraints of Old Boucherville – leading to additional delays.
-
Failure to check minimum distances – frequent non-compliance in narrow areas.
At AirGreen, we help our clients avoid these pitfalls by preparing a complete and compliant file from the start.
Your Responsibility / Our Support
Your Responsibility
Compliance with municipal laws, regulations and permits is the owner's responsibility . Although AirGreen will support and advise you every step of the way, it is your responsibility to ensure that your project is authorized and that all official permits are obtained before work begins.
Unless otherwise stated in our contract, obtaining the municipal permit , submitting the documents and complying with local requirements (positioning, noise, distances) remain your responsibility.
Our Support
At AirGreen , we believe that compliance is an integral part of the quality of an installation.
Our role is to:
-
clearly inform you of the regulatory requirements applicable to your address;
-
help you gather the necessary documents (plans, files, photos, forms);
-
contact the town planning department , if necessary, to check specific points;
-
and plan the installation to meet sound and visual standards .
We make your process simple, seamless and compliant with municipal regulations, while guaranteeing optimal comfort in your home.
Practical example: installation of a wall-mounted heat pump in Boucherville
Context: single-family house on rue de Montbrun, in a quiet residential area.
Project: addition of a 12,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump on the rear side facade.
Steps followed:
-
AirGreen provides the customer with the technical sheet of the chosen model (noise level: 45 dBA).
-
We prepare the simplified implementation plan indicating the exact location.
-
The client submits their permit application online with the attached documents.
-
In less than 30 days, the permit is granted .
-
The installation is carried out with anti-vibration supports and compliant clearance .
-
Municipal inspection confirms full compliance .
Result: a high-performance, quiet, regulatory-compliant system, installed stress-free.
Sanctions and fines
The City of Boucherville provides fines for any violation related to permits or noise pollution.
The amounts may vary depending on the severity, but an offending owner is liable for:
-
financial penalties (often between $200 and $1,000 for a first offense);
-
an obligation of immediate correction ;
-
and, in the event of a repeat offense, to more severe sanctions .
So it's much more beneficial to comply from the start . AirGreen always makes sure to guide you to avoid any costly mistakes.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How long is my license valid?
18 months from the date of issue, with the possibility of a one-time six-month extension.
Can I start work as soon as I submit the application?
No. You must wait for the official issuance of the permit before starting work.
Should I have the noise of my device measured?
This is not mandatory before application, but strongly recommended if the device approaches the 50 dBA limit.
What if my neighbor complains about the noise?
The City may request a sound audit . If the threshold is exceeded, you will have to correct the situation.
Can AirGreen file the application for me?
Yes, with a signed power of attorney . We will then prepare the complete file for you.
Next step!
At AirGreen , we support our customers every step of the way: from device selection to regulatory compliance.
Contact us today to plan your HVAC installation in Boucherville with complete peace of mind.
We make your comfort simple, efficient and 100% compliant .