Mechanical Unit and Geothermal Systems

• Do you know which in zone property is located?
• Did you read Bylaw #1303 concerning zoning?
• Did you read Bylaw #1387 concerning noise?

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. (By-law1305 to the SPAIP).

Process of an application subject to the SPAIP by-law

Required documents for review:

• A letter describing the scope of the proposed work;
• A letter from the building owner authorizing the permit application, if the request is made by a third party;
• A letter from the association of co-owners authorizing the proposed modification;
• A copy of a recent certificate of location, showing the current conditions of the property, showing the relative location of the mechanical unit(s) to the property lines;
• Scaled and dimensioned drawings of the visual screen, where appropriate;
• An official cost estimate, excluding taxes, provided by a general contractor.

The additional documents listed below are required, according to the type of interventions planned:

Mechanical unit

• Illustrated specifications of mechanical units, including dimensions and source noise level in decibels (dB);
• The description of the spring rail antivibration suspension system if the heating or cooling units are installed on the roof of a semi-detached or attached building;
• A start sheet in case of a generator;
• The maximum floor area of the residence to establish the volume limit.

Solar energy

• A plan showing the installation of the photovoltaic panels;
• A data sheet of the photovoltaic panels or of the wind turbine including an image and dimensions.

Geothermal

• A plan of the foreseen drilling, indicating the location of the drilling equipment;
• A data sheet of the photovoltaic panels or of the wind turbine including an image and dimensions;
• A site management document including the phasing and schedule of work, the method of retention of sludge, the occupation of public roads and municipal property.

This list is a summary. Please note that additional documents or information may be required in order to provide a better understanding of the project and contribute to the request process.

Once all the necessary information is gathered, you can submit your application online or in person at the Urban Planning Department at City Hall.

• The applicable fees include the file analysis fees. Please note that the fees related to the issuance of the permit or authorization certificate, if applicable, will be added to this amount.
• The cost of the permit or authorization certificate, if applicable, is calculated based on the cost of the work.

Consult the tariffs by-law for up-to-date rates.

Once the application has been reviewed, the applicant will receive a follow-up by email. 

Even if the application has been authorized, the issuance of the permit or certificate, if applicable, is not automatic; the applicable fees must be paid and certain documents must be submitted. 

An official quote from the contractor including the detailed cost of the proposed work, before taxes, must be submitted.