Heat pumps in Montréal-Est: permits and bylaws
Planning a heat pump or an air conditioner in Montréal-Est? 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 2 m from the lot lines.
At least 2 m from the lot lines, hidden from the street by opaque landscaping.
At least 2 m from the lot lines, hidden from the street by opaque landscaping.
Not specified in the bylaw: confirm with urban planning.
No more than 10% of the roof area and no more than 3 m high.
Good to know, and who to call.
Good to know
- The 2 m rule also covers generators and heating and ventilation equipment.
- Tank or propane cylinder: side and rear yards only, at least 1 m from the lot lines.
- Non-residential use: rooftop equipment hidden by a screen that is at least 75% opaque.
The short answers.
Do you need a permit to install a heat pump in Montréal-Est?
Bylaw 61-2016 does not name heat pumps among the work that needs a permit or certificate: confirm with Citizen services.
How far from the lot lines must the unit be?
At least 2 m from the lot lines.
Can a heat pump go in the front yard?
Yes, with conditions. At least 2 m from the lot lines, hidden from the street by opaque landscaping.
What is the noise limit?
50 dBA maximum, measured 10 m from the unit (“Habitation” zones).
Who should I call to confirm before the work?
Citizen services, 514 905-2000, option 1, servicescitoyens@montreal-est.ca.
Read at the source.
Sources: Zoning bylaw 58-2016, section 4.6 (s. 4.6.2 and 4.6.3); health, nuisance and safety bylaw 126-2025, s. 3.1.3 and Schedule A; permits and certificates bylaw 61-2016 (consolidated May 26, 2026 (58-2016); consolidated April 20, 2026 (61-2016)).
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 Montréal-Est?
We come and see your property, and the estimate is free.