Ban on combustion heating devices in new buildings

Last updated December 18, 2023
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Montréal has passed a by-law that bans GHG- emitting heaters, such as those fueled by gas or oil, in new buildings in the residential, commercial and institutional sectors.

Existing buildings are not targeted by this by-law. The by-law will come into force gradually, starting on October 1, 2024 for small buildings and then on April 1, 2025 for all others.

Overview of the by-law

The city will ban GHG-emitting combustion devices used to cook food, dry clothes and heating water or spaces. Stoves and heating systems that operate by burning oil, natural gas, propane and biodiesel are among the devices that will be banned.

Targeting new buildings

Small buildings

Up to 3 floors and 600 square metres per floor

Large buildings

More than 3 floors or more than 600 square metres per floor

Exclusions

  • Buildings for which a complete and compliant building permit application was filed before October 1, 2024 for small buildings or April 1, 2025 for large buildings
  • Buildings connected to an urban thermal network such as a hot water, steam or central air conditioning distribution system that serves several buildings
  • Manufacturing industries such as food processing plants

Exceptions

In large buildings, GHG-emitting devices will be allowed if the emissions come solely from renewable energy sources.

In addition, if Hydro-Québec’s connection times exceed 12 months after the issuance of the construction permit, small buildings will also be allowed to use renewable energy-fueled devices that emit GHGs.

In either case, owners will be required to retain and show proof of renewable gas supply, such as the energy supplier’s contract, upon request.

Prohibitions and authorizations

Prohibited

Combustion indoor air or water heaters

Indoor gas fireplaces

Residential gas or propane stoves

Gas-powered grills that are connected to a gas distribution network

Swimming pool or spa heaters that are connected to a gas distribution network

Authorized

Emergency generators

Wood-burning fireplaces authorized under the municipal by-law

Commercial gas or propane stoves (restaurants, bakeries, cafeterias, etc.)

Outdoor grills and patio heaters that are connected to a removable tank

Temporary heaters used during construction work

Declaration of energy sources

Information about energy sources must be disclosed when applying for a construction permit to build a new building.

Several financial assistance programs from Hydro-Québec and the government of Québec are available to reduce GHG emissions and your energy consumption.

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