Heat pumps in Outremont: permits and bylaws
Planning a heat pump or an air conditioner in Outremont? 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 m from the lot lines (1.5 to 3 m with an acoustic screen), not visible from a public road (except a laneway). Duplex and larger: acoustic screen and acoustic roof.
Same conditions as the backyard. In the side setback: only behind the line of the rear wall.
Not allowed: permitted only in the other yards and the rear setback.
Not specified in the bylaw: confirm with urban planning.
Flat roof: 2 m from a non-party parapet, not visible from 1.5 m high on the opposite sidewalk; acoustic screen if a higher roof is less than 20 m away.
Good to know, and who to call.
Good to know
- Strictly residential building: lines run inside or through the roof.
- Removable air conditioner: no permit, removed from October 15 to May 15.
- Corner or through lot: the “not visible from the street” rule does not apply.
The short answers.
Do you need a permit to install a heat pump in Outremont?
Permit required. Published fee: $121.
How far from the lot lines must the unit be?
3 m (1.5 to 3 m with an acoustic screen).
Can a heat pump go in the front yard?
No. Not allowed: permitted only in the other yards and the rear setback.
What is the noise limit?
Study by an expert (bylaw AO-21) if the building has more than 12 dwellings.
Who should I call to confirm before the work?
Urban planning and heritage department (Direction de l’aménagement urbain et du patrimoine), 514 495-6234.
Read at the source.
Sources: Zoning bylaw 1177, s. 7.5 i), 7.6.3 and 7.6.6 (consolidated October 2025); montreal.ca, “Obtenir un permis pour installer une thermopompe ou un appareil de climatisation”, Outremont section; noise bylaw AO-21 (consolidated October 2025; page updated August 3, 2026).
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 Outremont?
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