Construction and renovation
Please refer to the information on this page to learn more about the permit application process, required documentation, and the various types of permits. Most permit applications can be made online.
- For general information, please contact the Urban Planning Department by email at permis@westmount.org or by phone at 514 989 5219.
- To obtain drawings and/or archived photos of your property (if available), please send your request to permis@westmount.org.
- To find out the dates of the PAC (Planning Advisory Committee) meetings and the deadlines for the submission of complete applications, please click here.
- To submit documents for an active permit application, please email them with your file number to permis@westmount.org.
The following works do not require a permit or certificate. However, the standards written in the regulations still apply.
- Exterior and interior painting.
- Repointing of masonry.
- Re-surfacing of asphalt on a flat roof (white roofs are not required).
Generally speaking, if your project affects the exterior of the property, it is subject to the Site Planning and Architectural Integration Program (SPAIP) by-law and must be approved by City Council. However, restoration work on the original architectural components and identical replacement work are excluded. Article 3.1.3 of SPAIP By-law 1305.
Generally, an architect is not required by law (Architects Act, Chapter A-21) for the construction, enlargement, reconstruction, renovation or alteration of:
- A detached single-family dwelling unit having, after the work is completed, no more than one basement storey, a building height not exceeding two storeys and a gross area of less than 600 m2;
- A single-family semi-detached or attached building, or a multi-family building (4 units maximum) that has a maximum height of 2 storeys and a maximum gross area of 300 m2 (areas above ground, from exterior face of walls).
An architect is not required for the alteration and renovation of the interior layout if the occupancy remains unchanged and no modifications are made to the structure, the fire separations or the exterior cladding (envelope) or exits or access to the building’s exits.
Note: The number of basements and the use may have some impact on the above requirements.
Before 1980
Many homes built before 1980 contain asbestos: in old floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roof shingles and flashing, siding, insulation (around boilers, ducts, pipes, sheeting, fireplaces), pipe cement, and joint compound used on seams between pieces of sheet rock.
After 1980
For the purposes of this subdivision, gypsum boards and joint compounds manufactured after 1 January 1980 are deemed not to contain asbestos.
- An inspection process follows the issuance of a permit.
- Any modification to the project approved by Council for the issuance of the permit must be submitted for review and approval.
- The City inspectors can and will proceed with site visits to enforce the regulations.
- Upon a final inspection by the City inspectors, the permit or certificate file will be closed.
The most requested permits are illustrated below. Should you need assistance to direct your request, please contact the Urban Planning Department at (514) 989-5219.
