Verchères (Municipality): Permits and Regulations | Heat pump or air conditioning unit

Verchères (Municipality) – Permits and regulations for the installation of a heat pump or air conditioning unit

What you need to know before undertaking HVAC work in Verchères

HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) work carried out in Verchères is governed by specific municipal regulations. These rules aim to ensure the harmonious integration of equipment, limit noise pollution, protect the safety of occupants, and maintain the quality of life in residential areas.

Before installing or modifying any air conditioning unit, heat pump, or related equipment, it is essential to understand where the equipment can be installed, what distances must be respected, what technical constraints apply, and in what cases a permit or certificate is required.


General framework applicable to HVAC equipment in Verchères

Equipment permitted in residential settings

In Verchères, heat pumps, air conditioning units and other similar equipment are considered accessory equipment . As such, they are permitted in all residential use classes, whether for single-family or multi-family dwellings.

However, this authorization is not automatic or without conditions: the installation must comply with specific rules regarding location, positioning and operation.


Permitted locations for heat pumps and air conditioners

Permitted areas on the ground

An air conditioning unit or heat pump must be installed exclusively in one of the following locations:

  • in the backyard or in the rear margin of the property;

  • in the rear part of the side courtyard , that is, the rear half of the side wall of the main building.

These restrictions aim to reduce the visual and noise impact of the equipment on the street and on neighboring properties.

Minimum distances to be respected

During installation, certain minimum distances are mandatory:

  • 1.5 meters from the back line of the field;

  • 2 meters from any lateral line of the field.

These margins must be respected at all times, both for the outdoor unit and for its support.


Restrictions on the installation method

Installation on the roof is prohibited.

In Verchères, HVAC equipment such as heat pumps or air conditioners cannot be installed on the roof , whether it is the main building or an accessory building.
The installation must be carried out:

  • on the ground , or

  • on a support specifically designed for this purpose , ensuring stability, safety and durability.

Special case of multi-family buildings

In a multi-family dwelling, a heat pump serving a single unit may exceptionally be installed on a balcony. However, this possibility is subject to certain conditions:

  • If the equipment is visible from a traffic lane, it must be visually camouflaged in order to preserve the aesthetics of the building and the urban environment.


Technical requirements related to equipment operation

Devices connected to the water supply network

All HVAC equipment that uses water and is connected to the municipal water supply must operate in a closed loop .
This requirement aims to:

  • to avoid any loss of drinking water,

  • prevent non-compliant discharges,

  • to ensure responsible use of municipal infrastructure.


Noise standards

Compliance with noise regulations

The operation of a heat pump or air conditioner is subject to the municipal noise regulations in effect in Verchères. Noise levels are strictly regulated to protect the neighbourhood.

Maximum permitted threshold

  • The sound pressure level , measured at the boundary of the field, must never exceed 53 dB .

  • The measurement must be carried out according to the Leq method over 60 seconds , i.e. an average of the noise reported over a duration of one minute.

The choice of equipment, its location and the quality of the installation play a decisive role in meeting this requirement.


Permits and certificates for HVAC work

General principle

In Verchères, the installation of a heat pump or air conditioning unit is considered the addition of accessory equipment . As such, this work is generally subject to obtaining a permit or certificate of authorization , depending on the exact nature of the project.

It is forbidden to begin work before the required authorization has been issued by the competent municipal authority.

Owner's responsibility

Unless otherwise specified in the contract, it is the owner's responsibility to:

  • to check if a permit or certificate is required,

  • to obtain the necessary municipal permits,

  • to ensure that the installation complies with all applicable regulations,

  • to obtain, when required, the agreement of the co-ownership or the neighbors.

This responsibility applies even when the work is entrusted to a specialist contractor.


Application and control of regulations

The municipal regulations of Verchères are enforced by the competent authority designated by the municipality. This authority is responsible for:

  • to analyze applications for permits and certificates,

  • to verify the conformity of the installations,

  • to carry out inspections,

  • to intervene in case of non-compliance.

Failure to comply with regulations may result in notices of correction, fines and, in some cases, the obligation to modify or remove a non-compliant installation.


The support offered by AirGreen in Verchères

At AirGreen , we carry out each HVAC project while taking into account the specific regulations applicable to Verchères. Our role consists of:

  • clearly inform the client about the municipal constraints applicable to their project.

  • recommend locations and equipment that comply with local standards,

  • plan the installation in such a way as to limit visual and noise impacts,

  • guide the client in understanding the administrative procedures, when necessary.

Without transferring a heavy or intimidating administrative burden, we support our clients at every stage so that the installation is carried out in compliance with municipal regulations, in complete peace of mind.


In summary

For any heat pump or air conditioning project in Verchères, it is essential to:

  • choose an authorized location,

  • respect minimum distances,

  • avoid any installation on the roof,

  • control the noise level,

  • check the permit requirements,

  • assume the responsibilities related to regulatory compliance.

Good planning, combined with professional support, helps to avoid unpleasant surprises and ensures a sustainable, compliant and respectful installation for the neighborhood.

Warning

This section has been prepared solely for the reader's convenience and has no official or legal value. No guarantee is given as to the accuracy of the text. For all legal purposes, the reader should consult the official version of the bylaw and each of its amendments or obtain a certified copy from the city clerk.

---UPDATE: January 12, 2026---