Heat pumps in Varennes: permits and bylaws
Planning a heat pump or an air conditioner in Varennes? 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 1.2 m from the lot lines.
At least 1.2 m from the lot lines.
Not allowed, except for buildings with 3 or more units outside heritage (PA) zones: on a porch, balcony or gallery, serving one unit only.
Allowed in the front yard on a porch, balcony or gallery of a building with 3 or more units (serving one unit only).
Not specified in the bylaw: confirm with urban planning.
Good to know, and who to call.
Good to know
- Heritage (PA) zones: no heat pump in the front yard, even for 3 or more units.
- Corner lot: allowed in a side or rear yard that faces a street.
- Window or through-the-wall A/C units: allowed in all yards.
The short answers.
Do you need a permit to install a heat pump in Varennes?
No permit or certificate required.
How far from the lot lines must the unit be?
1.2 m from any lot line.
Can a heat pump go in the front yard?
Yes, with conditions. Not allowed, except for buildings with 3 or more units outside heritage (PA) zones: on a porch, balcony or gallery, serving one unit only.
What is the noise limit?
Nuisance bylaw: no figure for heat pumps.
Who should I call to confirm before the work?
Urban planning and environment department, 450 652-9888, ext. 1300.
Read at the source.
Sources: Zoning bylaw 707, s. 108 (table 3, row 18); permits bylaw 711, s. 43; nuisance bylaw 529 (administrative versions of June 12, 2026).
Checked by AirGreen on September 30, 2026.
This page is a summary. The official bylaw prevails. Confirm with the city before the work.
A heat pump project in Varennes?
We come and see your property, and the estimate is free.
