Permits and Regulations for the installation of heat pumps and air conditioning units in Montreal North
Understanding Municipal Requirements Before Your HVAC Work
At AirGreen , we know that a successful heat pump or wall-mounted air conditioner installation is about more than just the unit's performance. Compliance with municipal regulations is just as essential. In the borough of Montréal-Nord , as elsewhere in Montréal, certain rules govern the installation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment to ensure the safety, tranquility, and visual harmony of the neighborhood.
This article presents the obligations to be respected , the documents to be provided , the applicable fees , as well as good practices for an installation in compliance with current municipal regulations.
Permits required for an HVAC installation in Montreal North
Before carrying out any work to install a heat pump or a permanent air conditioning unit , it is mandatory to obtain a permit , also called a certificate of authorization . This requirement stems from the Montreal North urban planning by-law , which governs the installation of outdoor equipment in order to preserve the quality of life and the architectural appearance of the area.
When is a permit required?
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Permanent wall-mounted heat pump : permit required before installation.
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Window or portable air conditioner : No permit is required for this type of removable unit.
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Replacing an existing appliance : A new permit may be required if the location, model or noise level changes.
Where to install your device?
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Backyard : location generally authorized without any special conditions.
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Side yard : installation permitted under certain conditions (distances, visibility, noise). It is advisable to check with the borough permit counter before any project.
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Front facade : generally prohibited to preserve the aesthetics of homes.
Noise and neighborhood rules
The City of Montreal North imposes a maximum noise level of 50 decibels (dBA) measured at the boundaries of the property . This rule aims to protect the peace and quiet of residents, particularly in densely populated areas.
💡 AirGreen Advice: Our technicians always ensure the optimal orientation and distance of the outdoor unit in order to comply with these acoustic standards while maximizing the energy efficiency of your device.
Permit pricing
Since the update of October 3, 2025 , the applicable costs for a permit to install a HVAC unit in the borough of Montréal-Nord are as follows:
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$10.76 per $1,000 of work value
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Minimum amount to pay: $72.26 (taxes included)
Payment is made directly at the Montréal-Nord Permit Counter , located at:
4243 Charleroi Street, Montreal, Quebec H1H 1S4
Documents to provide when applying
To ensure your permit application is processed quickly, you will need to submit the following documents:
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Certificate of location of the property
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Site plan showing the intended location of the device
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Estimate of the cost of the work (bid)
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Technical data sheet and installation quote for the equipment
At AirGreen, we assist you in preparing these documents to ensure a compliant submission from the start.
Where and how to submit your application
Permit applications can be made:
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In person , at the Permit Counter – Montreal North , at the address mentioned above.
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Online , via the City of Montreal portal, in the Obtain a permit to install a heat pump or air conditioning unit section.
Before taking any steps, we recommend contacting the permit department in your district to confirm the specific conditions depending on the configuration of your property.
Good to know: compliance and mistakes to avoid
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Failure to check noise limits before installation is the most common mistake.
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Installing the device too close to the property line may result in non-compliance.
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Failure to obtain the authorization certificate before work may result in a fine and an obligation to dismantle .
At AirGreen , we help our clients avoid these pitfalls by checking every step of the process: layout plan, regulatory compliance, technical documentation and choice of suitable equipment.
Your Responsibility / Our Support
Your Responsibility
It is important to note that compliance with all applicable rules, permits and regulations remains the responsibility of each customer .
Although we at AirGreen are always available to provide guidance and advice, it is your responsibility to ensure that your project complies with local requirements and that the necessary permits have been obtained before work begins.
Unless otherwise stated in our contract, obtaining permits and ensuring regulatory compliance for the installation is the customer's responsibility.
Our Support
At AirGreen , we believe that a successful installation requires transparency and compliance .
Our team is here to guide, inform and support you in understanding the administrative procedures related to your HVAC project.
We help you identify applicable obligations and communicate effectively with municipal services when necessary.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us —we're here to make your experience simple, clear, and compliant.
Next step!
At AirGreen , we support our customers at every stage of their process for compliant, safe and sustainable HVAC installations .
Contact our team today for personalized advice or a free on-site estimate .