Heat pumps in Ville-Marie: permits and bylaws
Planning a heat pump or an air conditioner in Ville-Marie? 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.
At least 3 m from the lot lines.
Not allowed in the front yard or on a front balcony.
Balcony on the side or at the rear: at least 3 m from the lot lines.
Flat roof: set back from the façade by twice its height; north of rue Sherbrooke, CCU review; acoustic screen possible.
Good to know, and who to call.
Good to know
- Work must start within 12 months of the permit.
- Removable air conditioner: no permit, allowed on the façade.
The short answers.
Do you need a permit to install a heat pump in Ville-Marie?
Permit required (roof, balcony or wall). Published fee: $9.80 per $1,000 of work, minimum $167.40 (residential).
How far from the lot lines must the unit be?
3 m minimum.
Can a heat pump go in the front yard?
No. Not allowed in the front yard or on a front balcony.
What is the noise limit?
Acoustic screen possible on a roof.
Who should I call to confirm before the work?
Permit counter, 800 boulevard De Maisonneuve Est, ground floor; 311.
Read at the source.
Sources: montreal.ca, “Obtenir un permis pour installer une thermopompe ou un appareil de climatisation”, Ville-Marie section (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 Ville-Marie?
We come and see your property, and the estimate is free.