Air conditioning or cooling units that use drinking water

Last updated November 28, 2023

Do you have an air conditioning or cooling unit that uses drinking water? As of in January 2018, residents are required to replace these types of units with a fully compliant air conditioning unit, heat pump or other system. Find out everything you need to know.

With some exceptions, these units had to be replaced by January 1, 2018, subject to a fine.

If you have not already done so, in certain cases that are mentioned below, you can write to [email protected] for further instructions about how to proceed.

Owners of heritage buildings

Your building must have heritage status under the law or be located in the Old Montréal or Mount Royal designated heritage areas.

Owners of other types of residential buildings

You must demonstrate that it would cost more than $10,000 to replace your air conditioning unit.

Owners of industrial, commercial, or institutional buildings

You may not ask for an extension and must immediately comply with the by-law.

Fines for infractions

Individuals:

  • for a first offence, the fine will be $200 to $500.
  • for any subsequent offence, the fine will be $500 to $2,000.

Industrial, commercial, or institutional bodies:

  • for a first offence, the fine will be $400 to $1000.
  • for any subsequent offence, the fine will be $500 to $4,000.

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