Heat pump noise and setback rules in Metro Vancouver
By the Vancouver Heat Pump Pro team
Updated
Noise is the most common reason neighbours complain about heat pumps - and almost always comes down to where the outdoor unit was put. Here's how Metro Vancouver cities handle it, with links to the source. We've broken out the cities where the local rules are most specific below the table.
City by city
| City | Setback | Noise | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver | Outright option: at least 90 cm from the property line; one exterior unit per yard | Must meet Noise Control By-law; 55 dBA or less sound power recommended | City bulletin |
| Richmond | At least 1.2 m from the property line; side yards strongly discouraged | 55 dBA day / 45 dBA night at a receiving point in Quiet zones | City guideline |
| Surrey | No number given; as far from the property line as possible, front or back yard over side yard | Typical units 45–55 dB | City page |
| Coquitlam | Zone setbacks plus an additional 1.0 m interior side yard setback | Not specified in the FAQ | City FAQ |
Rules change and other municipalities have their own - always confirm for your address.
More local detail
Our city pages cover the permit, noise and siting rules in full, with sources:
- Burnaby: the Noise Bylaw sets 55 dBA by day and 45 dBA at night, and the City advises the rear of the lot. Wall or roof mounting needs a building permit.
- North Vancouver: the City and the District are separate, and both use 55 and 45 dB(A) limits. The District's bylaw names heat pumps heard at night.
- West Vancouver: the night limit starts at 6 p.m., and fines can reach $10,000 per day.
- Port Coquitlam: the noise bylaw names heat pumps, with 55 dB by day and 50 dB from 11 p.m.
- New Westminster: quiet-zone limits are 55 dB by day and 45 dB at night.
- Langley: the Township bars heat pumps within 1.5 m of any lot line, while the City has no decibel limit.
- Also see Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey and Coquitlam.
How to keep a heat pump quiet
- Pick a quiet model. Compare sound power ratings, not just "quiet" in the brochure.
- Stay out of side yards where possible - they put the unit closest to a neighbour's bedroom.
- Mount it properly on a solid pad or bracket with vibration isolators.
- Use the landscape. Fences and plantings absorb sound; hard walls and concrete reflect it.
- Size it correctly. An undersized unit runs at high speed more often, and that's when it's loudest.
- Talk to your neighbour. A five-minute conversation before install prevents most complaints.
Want a placement that meets your city's rules?
We check setbacks and noise limits for your address before we quote, and show you exactly where the unit will go.
Get my free quoteor call (604) 332-3083