installing a heat pump just got easier!

The revision of regulations for the installation of heat pumps in the canton of Vaud, suspended following an appeal, has been validated by the Constitutional Court (CCST). From now on, installing such a heating system will no longer require a building permit in most cases. A simple notice to the municipality is all that's required, making it easier and quicker to replace fossil-fuel heating systems.

The new article 68c exempts the installation of heat pumps (air/air or air/water) for the production of heating and domestic hot water in existing buildings from planning permission.

This also applies to the exterior of an existing building, provided that the heat pump is integrated into the building, does not exceed a volume of 2m3, does not affect other overriding interests and does not cause excessive noise in the vicinity, says the press release.

In addition, at altitudes of over 1,000 metres, only buildings with the Minergie label or CECB C label can be exempted.

This new procedure does not apply to ground-to-water heat pumps.

As for the procedure, the installation of a heat pump simply has to be notified to the relevant local authority. It is then up to the municipal authorities to decide whether or not to grant an exemption from the building permit requirement. If the conditions for an exemption are not met, the project is still subject to a building permit application procedure," explains the canton.

In June 2023, the Conseil d'Etat adopted the revised regulations governing the application of the Land Use and Building Act (RLATC) and the Energy Act (RLVLEne). Blocked by an appeal, it was validated by the CCST in its ruling of January 12, 2024.