Permits and regulations for the installation of a heat pump or air conditioning unit in Outremont
Understand the obligations before undertaking your HVAC work
At AirGreen , we understand that installing a heat pump or air conditioning unit is a significant investment in your home's comfort. However, in Outremont, as elsewhere in Montreal, these installations are governed by specific municipal regulations . This article aims to guide you through the rules, required permits , and installation requirements applicable to your HVAC project, ensuring full compliance with local requirements.
1. Municipal permit required in Outremont
The installation of a heat pump or a permanent air conditioning unit requires obtaining a permit issued by the borough of Outremont .
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Validity of the permit: 12 months from the date of issue.
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Responsible for issuance: Outremont Borough Permit Office.
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Procedure: You must submit an installation plan and describe the intended location of the device. Municipal fees may apply.
💡 Good to know: removable devices (temporary or window) do not require a permit, but remain subject to certain usage restrictions (see section 4).
2. Installation conditions
The rules for installation in Outremont are governed by the municipal regulations of the City of Montreal , updated in October 2025. Here are the main requirements:
a) Location and minimum distances
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The device must be installed at least 3 meters from any property boundary .
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If the device is between 1.5 and 3 meters , it must be surrounded by an acoustic screen to reduce noise propagation.
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The device must not be visible from a public street , except in the case of a rear alley.
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It is permitted to install the device on a flat roof , under certain conditions:
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Minimum distance of 2 meters from a non-adjoining parapet .
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The device must not be visible 1.5 meters above the sidewalk on the other side of the street.
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Noise mitigation measures (e.g. acoustic screen) must be provided if the roof is lower than another within a radius of 20 meters.
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(b) Multi-dwelling buildings
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For duplexes, triplexes or buildings with more than 3 dwellings , the device must be surrounded by an acoustic screen with a roof .
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For exclusively residential buildings , ventilation ducts must be located inside or on the roof of the building.
3. Acoustic study and additional requirements
Some installations require an expert assessment to ensure compliance with the Noise Regulations (AO-21) .
Such a study is required if the device serves:
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a commercial or institutional building adjacent to a residential area , or
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a building with more than 12 dwellings .
This study aims to ensure that the noise level respects the prescribed limits, both day and night.
4. Removable devices: special rules
Portable air conditioners (often called window air conditioners) are exempt from permit requirements, but must comply with the following rules:
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Seasonal ban: they must be removed between October 15 and May 15 .
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Minimum distance: they cannot be installed less than 2 meters from another opening (window, door, balcony or terrace) of a neighboring unit.
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Interior courtyard: their installation is prohibited in a window overlooking a narrow courtyard (less than 3 meters from the property boundary).
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Permanent installation prohibited: a removable device can never be permanently fixed .
Sound level
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The maximum permitted noise level is 38 dB or 55 dB depending on the time of day , in accordance with regulation AO-21.
These thresholds aim to preserve the tranquility of the residential neighborhoods of Outremont.
5. Common mistakes to avoid
To help you avoid administrative delays or fines:
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Never install the device before obtaining the official permit .
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Check property distances before choosing the location.
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Make sure the unit is not visible from the public highway .
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Use approved anti-vibration mounts and acoustic screens .
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In co-ownership, obtain written agreement from the union before any installation.
6. Concrete example: typical installation in Outremont
In a typical residential building in Outremont — often semi-detached, with a limited backyard — a wall-mounted heat pump must be:
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installed on the rear side ,
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more than 3 meters from the neighbor's fence, or protected by an acoustic screen if space is restricted,
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not visible from the street ,
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and ideally fixed on anti-vibration supports to limit the noise transmitted to the structure.
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 meets local requirements and that the necessary permits have been obtained before work begins .
Unless otherwise stated in our contract, the responsibility for obtaining permits and ensuring the compliance of the installation lies with the customer.
Our Support
At AirGreen , we believe that a successful installation requires transparency and compliance .
Our team is here to guide you, inform you and support you in understanding the administrative procedures related to your HVAC project.
We help you identify applicable obligations , prepare your permit application 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 efforts for compliant and sustainable HVAC installations .
Contact us today to get a free, personalized estimate for your project in Outremont.