Heat pumps in Montréal-Nord: permits and bylaws
Planning a heat pump or an air conditioner in Montréal-Nord? Here is what the bylaws say: the permit, the distance from the lot lines, where the unit can go and the noise limit. It all comes from the official texts.
Five spots, one answer for each.
Each answer is the bylaw rule, in short. “Not specified” means the text does not say: ask urban planning.
At least 3.10 m from the lot lines. Closer than 5 m to a lot line: sound screen required.
At least 3.10 m from the lot lines. In the side setback: only if the nearest wall of the neighbouring building has no window or door.
Not allowed in the front setback, main or secondary.
Not specified in the bylaw: confirm with urban planning.
Not specified in the bylaw: confirm with urban planning.
Good to know, and who to call.
Good to know
- Sound screen required if the unit is closer than 5 m to a lot line.
- Removable unit: no permit.
Documents to provide
- Certificate of location
- Site plan
- Estimated cost of the work
- Spec sheet and installation quote
The short answers.
Do you need a permit to install a heat pump in Montréal-Nord?
Certificate of authorization required. Published fee: $11 per $1,000 of work, minimum $74.
How far from the lot lines must the unit be?
3.10 m minimum; sound screen if closer than 5 m.
Can a heat pump go in the front yard?
No. Not allowed in the front setback, main or secondary.
What is the noise limit?
50 dB maximum, at the lot lines.
Who should I call to confirm before the work?
Permit counter, 4243, rue de Charleroi.
Read at the source.
Sources: City of Montréal, “Obtenir un permis pour installer une thermopompe ou un appareil de climatisation”, Montréal-Nord section; consolidated zoning bylaw 1562, s. 93, 95, 96 and 104 (page updated August 3, 2026; bylaw 1562 consolidated October 12, 2010).
Checked by AirGreen on September 30, 2026.
This page is a summary. The official bylaw prevails. Confirm with the borough before the work.
A heat pump project in Montréal-Nord?
We come and see your property, and the estimate is free.