Park Extension’s Winter Car Shelter: How to Install Safely and Legally

If you’re planning to set up a temporary car shelter this winter, it’s essential to understand the rules and regulations that apply in your borough to ensure both compliance and safety. Fortunately, no permit is required to install this type of seasonal structure, but certain guidelines must be followed.
In the borough of Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension, temporary car shelters can be installed from October 15 to April 15. After this period, it’s mandatory to fully dismantle the structure, including its metal frame, and remove it from the property. The shelter must meet specific criteria, including a maximum height of 3 meters and a width that does not exceed 6.5 meters. Additionally, it should be firmly secured to the ground using either appropriate anchors or counterweights.
When selecting a location for your shelter, make sure it is installed within your residence’s designated parking space and positioned at least 0.75 meters away from the sidewalk. If your home is on a street without sidewalks, the shelter must maintain the same distance from the public road. Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that the structure is at least 1.5 meters away from any fire hydrants and 5 meters from intersections if your house is on a corner.
Only one temporary shelter is allowed per residence, so planning its location and installation is key.
Regarding materials, the rules specify that the shelter should be made from synthetic fabric that is white and translucent, with a removable metal frame. If the shelter is installed less than 3 meters from the sidewalk or public road, it must have a window of at least 0.5 square meters on each side. These windows must be positioned at least 2 meters away from the access point to the shelter, ensuring good visibility and safety for drivers and pedestrians alike.
It’s important to note that temporary shelters are not permitted in heritage zones. If you are unsure whether your property is located in such an area, contact your borough office for clarification.
Should you need more information or have questions about the rules, you can reach out to your local authorities by dialing 311 within Montreal or 514-872-0311 from outside the city. Operating hours for this service are Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM, and on weekends and holidays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safe and compliant installation of your temporary car shelter this winter, while avoiding any potential issues with local regulations.