Processing time. We are currently receiving a high volume of requests, increasing our usual processing time. Please be assured that your request will be processed as soon as possible and that you will be contacted at that time. To help reduce this delay, we ask that you avoid multiple follow-up requests by email or telephone. For requests concerning minor work (e.g. pool, shed, interior residential renovations, etc.), please note that a minimum processing time of 30 days may be required.

General information

Certain works inside and/or outside a residence require a permit issued by the Urban Planning Department. It is therefore highly recommended to contact this department before beginning any work.

You must obtain a permit for the following (non-exhaustive):

Do I need a permit? – A Guide for Residents

PDF, 101 KB

The application for these permits should be submitted as soon as possible before the work is to start. Once the work is started, it must be completed within three months—however, if it is not completed within three months, you can apply for a new permit.

If you are unsure whether you need a permit, please email us at [email protected] or call the Urban Planning Department at 514-485-6800. 

Online application PDF application

See Temporary car shelter (tempos) to apply for a certificate of authorization for a winter car shelter

See Trees to use the PDF tree cutting application form

Time of day restrictions

Unless you have permission from the City granted under special circumstances:

  • You may not carry out exterior work (including excavation):
    • between 7 pm and 7 am on week days (Mon – Fri);
    • on weekends and statutory holidays.
  • You may not carry out all other construction work:
    • between 7 pm and 7 am and week days (Mon – Fri);
    • between 7 pm and 9 am on weekends and statutory holidays.

How to receive a construction permit

Here are the steps required to receive a building permit for a new construction of extension:

  • Submit to Urban Planning a perspective and/or elevation of the proposed dwelling and a site plan
  • The Planning Advisory Committee will review the request and recommend approval or rejection to City Council
  • If City Council approves, you must submit to Urban Planning three copies of complete plans, signed and stamped by an architect, engineer, or any person allowed to do so by law
  • A construction permit will be issued

For all other requests, such as an installation of a fence or repaving of a driveway, the deposit of certain documents will be necessary. Call Urban Planning to learn which ones are necessary and the costs of different permits.

House plans

You can request a copy of your house plans from the Urban Planning Division. However, only the owner can obtain a copy of the plans, provided that the architect who drew up the plans authorizes the city to transmit them to the owner. The city charges a minimum fee.

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