Installing a heat pump may require different permits depending on your specific circumstances.
If you are constructing a new building, your heating system will be reviewed as part of your building and development permit application. Find out more
A. Review bulletin related to building type
To determine what permits and documents you will need, refer to the administrative bulletins and guidance documents related to your building type:
A heat pump is an appliance that moves heat in and out of your home using electricity. A single system can both heat and cool your house year-round and there is a wide range of systems to supplement or fully replace your existing heating or hot water systems.
A heat pump requires an exterior condenser unit that can be installed on the ground or mounted on a wall. The heated or cooled air can be transferred inside the house either in ducts or with ‘ductless’ systems.
The electrical grid in British Columbia is over 92% renewable energy, so switching to a heat pump from fossil-fuel systems can significantly reduce a home’s carbon emissions.
Recent technology improvements have allowed for:
Active air filtration and better indoor air quality
As a Climate Emergency Response action, gas fired heating and hot water systems will no longer be permitted in most new construction of 1-3 storey residential homes as of January 1, 2022. We are preparing training for compliant systems focused on heat pumps.
