You have a renovation project and want to cut down a mature tree on your property, or planning to open a business in Longueuil? Chances are you'll need a certificate of authorization.
Did you know that over 1,200 certificates of authorization were issued in Longueuil in 2024? That's a lot. And most applications are now made online, which speeds up the process considerably.
In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to apply, step by step. What documents to prepare, how much it costs, how long it takes, and above all: how to avoid the mistakes that cause refusals or delays.
Need help with the process? Contact Cartago Construction - we know the process inside out and can help you every step of the way.
Why a certificate of authorization is mandatory in Longueuil
A certificate of authorization is the Ville de Longueuil's official approval for certain work or uses on your property. It's different from a building permit, but just as important.
The city requires this certificate to ensure that your project complies with local planning regulations. This includes zoning, exterior appearance, land use, and harmony with the neighborhood.
Regulation CO-2024-1285 governs all this. If you carry out work without a certificate when one is required, you risk fines of up to 5,000$ for a first offence. The city can also force you to undo what you've done.
Work and projects concerned
Many types of projects require a certificate of authorization in Longueuil. Here are the most common:
Tree felling - Cutting a tree over 10 cm in diameter on your private property generally requires a certificate, especially if the tree is considered mature or protected.
Landscaping - Build a driveway, install a fence over 2 metres high, build a raised terrace, or create an outdoor parking lot.
Commercial changes - Change the use of a commercial premises, install a new sign, or modify the exterior appearance of a business.
Temporary uses - Organize a public event on private property, install a temporary waste container during renovations, or use land for a purpose other than that specified in the zoning plan.
Vieux-Longueuil, Greenfield Park and Saint-Hubert each have their own particularities. Some heritage districts have even stricter rules to preserve their architectural character.
Not sure if your project requires a certificate? Request a free assessment from Cartago Construction - we'll check it for you in just a few minutes.
What doesn't require authorization
You don't need a certificate for small, routine maintenance jobs. Repainting your house the same color, replacing identical roofing shingles, or planting shrubs in your backyard are usually no problem.
Minor repairs that don't change the building's appearance or use don't usually require a certificate either. For example, replacing a door with a similar one, or repairing porch steps.
But be careful: as soon as you touch the structure or change the appearance exterior visibly, you are entering a zone where a certificate or permit may be required. When in doubt, always check with the Direction de l'urbanisme de Longueuil.
Steps to apply for a certificate of authorization in Longueuil
The process of obtaining a certificate of authorization is simpler than before, thanks to the city's online platform. But you still need to prepare your file well to avoid refusals.
Here's how it's done, from start to finish.
1️⃣ Prepare your essential documents
Before you even begin your online application, gather all the necessary documents. Approximately 25% of applications are refused or delayed simply because the documents are incomplete or out of date.
Basic documents required for most applications :
Certificate of Location - This is the official plan of your property prepared by a land surveyor. It must be less than 10 years old, or up to date if changes have been made since then. Without this document, your application will not even be processed.
Layout plan - For development or construction projects, you need to provide a plan showing the exact location of what you want to do. This includes distances from property lines and existing buildings.
Site photos - Recent photos of your property and the surrounding area. This helps the Comité consultatif d'urbanisme (CCU) understand the context of your project.
Detailed project description - A clear text explaining what you want to do, why, and how it will fit into the neighborhood.
Specific documents depending on the type of project :
For a business: commercial lease, proof of insurance, interior layout plan if required.
For tree felling: report by a certified arborist if the tree is protected, justification for felling, replacement plan if applicable.
For a commercial sign: technical drawing of the sign with dimensions, materials, colors and lighting system.
Download the complete Cartago checklist to avoid oversights that lead to certificate refusals - we'll e-mail it to you free of charge.
2️⃣ Submit your application on the Permis en Ligne portal
Since October 2024, the City of Longueuil has modernized its system. Approximately 85% of certificate applications are now made online via the Permis en Ligne portal.
Here's how to submit your request:
Go to the Ville de Longueuil website and find the Permits and Certificates section. Click on Permis en Ligne to access the secure portal.
Create an account or log in if you already have one. You'll need a valid e-mail address and the exact street address of your property.
Select the type of certificate you need. The system will guide you with questions to identify the right form.
Fill in all mandatory fields. Take your time - address or batch number errors cause major delays.
Upload all your documents in PDF format. Make sure files are clear and legible. Blurred photos or shots that are too small may result in rejection.
Pay online by credit card. You will receive immediate confirmation by e-mail with your application number.
Since the digital reform of October 2025, approvals are on average 40% faster than before. The system also allows you to track the status of your application in real time.
If you prefer in-person service, you can always come to the physical counter at 777 rue d'Auvergne. Please note, however, that processing may take a little longer.
3️⃣ Follow-up, review and approval by the CCU
Once your application has been submitted, it enters the review process. Your file will be analyzed by the professionals at the Direction de l'urbanisme.
For certain larger projects, or those located in sensitive areas, your application must be submitted to the Comité consultatif d'urbanisme (CCU). This group of experts assesses whether your project complies with the city's development guidelines.
The CCU generally meets twice a month. If your project has to go before the committee, this adds about 15 days to the processing time.
The new UCC rules that came into force in October 2025 have slightly relaxed the criteria for certain types of eco-responsible projects. The current approval rate is around 70% for complete and well-prepared applications.
You will be notified by e-mail as soon as a decision is made. If your application is approved, your certificate of authorization will be available digitally in your Online Permits account.
If your application is rejected or modifications are requested, you will receive a detailed explanation of the reasons. You can then correct the problem areas and submit a revised application.
Costs, timescales and tips to speed up processing
How much does it cost and how long does it take? These are the two questions we're most often asked.
The good news is that costs are reasonable and lead times have fallen significantly since 2025.
How much does a certificate of authorization cost?
Fees vary according to the type of certificate and the complexity of the project. Here are the typical ranges established by Regulation CO-2024-1285 :
Certificate for commercial use - Between 150$ and 300$ depending on the nature of the project. A simple change of sign costs less than a complete change of use of the premises.
Tree felling certificate - Between 50$ and 100$ per tree, plus additional fees if an arborist's report is required (approx. 200$ to 300$).
Certificate for landscaping - Between 75$ and 200$, depending on the extent of the work. A standard driveway generally costs around 100$.
Certificate for temporary use - Between 100$ and 250$ depending on duration and nature of use.
This fee covers analysis of your file, review by the CCU if necessary, and issuance of the official certificate. They are non-refundable, even if your application is refused.
Need help preparing your plans and documents? Request a free quote from Cartago Construction - we'll take care of everything for you.
Average processing times
Delays have fallen considerably since the digital reform of 2025. Here's what you can expect:
Simple applications without UCC - Between 5 and 10 working days. This is the case for most tree cuttings, standard commercial signs and minor alterations.
Requests requiring a CCU review - Between 15 and 25 working days, depending on the date of the next committee meeting and the complexity of your project.
Complex or heritage requests - Up to 30 working days in heritage areas or for projects requiring additional consultation.
The factor that causes the most delays is incomplete or incorrect documents. If the city has to contact you to request missing information, this can easily add 2 weeks to your deadline.
That's why we always recommend that you have your file checked by a professional before submitting it. At Cartago Construction, we can review your documents and tell you right away if anything is missing.
Common mistakes to avoid (and how to correct them)
We've seen dozens of applications rejected or delayed for avoidable reasons. Here are the most common mistakes and how to prevent them.
Non-conforming address or zoning
Approximately 25% of refusals are caused by address errors or incorrect zoning information. The City's system is very strict on this.
Make sure you use exactly the official civic address as it appears on your tax bill. Not your mailing address, if it's different, but the civic address recognized by the city.
Also check your property's zoning. Since August 2025, the City has offered an online GIS mapping tool that lets you instantly see in which zone your property is located and what rules apply.
If you discover that your project does not comply with current zoning, you may need to apply for a minor variance or zoning by-law amendment. This is a different, longer process.
Expired or non-renewed certificate
Your certificate of authorization is generally valid for one year from the date of issue. If you do not carry out your project within this period, the certificate expires and you must apply for a new one.
It's estimated that around 18% of urban planning fines in Longueuil come from expired certificates or work started without renewal. People simply forget to check the date.
If you know your project is going to take time, ask for an extension before it expires. It's much simpler and cheaper than starting all over again.
Is your certificate about to expire? Avoid fines - consult an expert at Cartago Construction to find out how.
Missing or out-of-date documents
A certificate of location that's 12 years old, photos taken in winter when you're asking for permission to cut down a tree, a site plan that's not to scale - these are mistakes we see all the time.
The city is strict about the quality and currency of its documents. If your certificate of location is more than 10 years old, or if changes have been made to your property since it was prepared, you must order a new one from a land surveyor.
Plans must be clear, to scale, and signed by a qualified professional when required. Hand drawings or rough sketches are generally not accepted for major projects.
New 2025 rules: what's new for owners and contractors
The City of Longueuil has adopted several important changes for 2025 to simplify procedures and encourage eco-responsible projects.
By-law VL-2025-839 introduces changes that directly affect the way certificates of authorization are processed.
Simplification for eco-responsible uses
Projects that contribute to the fight against climate change now benefit from accelerated processing. These include the installation of electric charging stations, green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and developments that increase the urban canopy.
There was a 30% increase in certificate applications for green projects in 2025 compared with 2024. The City is actively encouraging these initiatives as part of its Plan d'urbanisme 2035.
If your project includes eco-responsible elements, mention them clearly in your application. This can positively influence the CCU's decision, and sometimes even reduce costs.
Towards a digital 100% process by 2026
The City of Longueuil is investing heavily in digital transformation of its services. By the end of 2026, the aim is to have a fully automated process for simple requests.
The new system will include automatic zoning checks via GIS map integration. You'll know instantly whether your project complies with zoning requirements even before you submit your application.
An API will also enable contractors and professionals to submit requests directly from their project management software. This is an important innovation that will save everyone time.
Why choose Cartago Construction for your project
Navigating urban planning by-laws and municipal processes can be complex. That's where we come in.
At Cartago Construction, we assist our customers with all their certificate and permit requirements in Longueuil.
Local expertise and guaranteed conformity
We've been working in Longueuil for years. We know CO-2024-1285 by heart. We know exactly what inspectors are looking for, and how to prepare a file that passes the test the first time.
Yassine Troudi, our founder, has over 10 years' experience in residential construction in Quebec. He has managed hundreds of certificate and permit applications for projects of all sizes.
We've established a good relationship with the Longueuil urban planning department. When we submit a file, it's complete, compliant and well presented. This speeds up the approval process considerably.
Transparent process and comprehensive support
We offer a turnkey service that takes the stress out of paperwork. Here's how it works:
Free initial consultation - We assess your project and tell you right away whether a certificate is required and what type.
Preparing the complete file - We gather all the necessary documents, prepare plans if required, and make sure everything is in order.
Submission and follow-up - We submit the application on your behalf and follow up with the City until final approval.
Continuous support - If the city requests any changes or additional information, we'll deal with it promptly.
You don't have to worry about technical details, deadlines or potential errors. We manage everything for you from A to Z.
Contact Cartago Construction today for personalized assistance with your certificate application in Longueuil.
Call us at 438-932-4326 or e-mail [email protected]. We'll make it easy for you.
FAQ - Certificate of authorization in Longueuil (2025)
How long does it take to obtain a certificate of authorization?
For simple requests without review by the CCU, allow between 5 and 10 working days. More complex applications requiring approval by the Comité consultatif d'urbanisme generally take between 15 and 25 days. Times have decreased by 40% since the digital reform of October 2025.
Can I apply online for a business?
Yes, absolutely. The Ville de Longueuil's Permis en Ligne platform accepts applications for commercial use certificates. You'll need to provide your commercial lease, proof of insurance, and sometimes a layout plan depending on the nature of your business. Approximately 85% of applications are now made online.
What documents are required for a tree cutting certificate?
You'll need clear photos of the tree, your certificate of location, and a justification for the cut. If the tree is considered protected or exceeds a certain diameter, the City may require a report from a certified arborist. Fees range from 50$ to 100$ per tree, plus approximately 200$ to 300$ for the arborist's report if required.
How do I renew an expired certificate?
If your certificate has expired and you have not yet completed your project, you must submit a complete new application. There is no simplified renewal process. However, you can request an extension before the expiry date if you know your project will take longer. Contact the Direction de l'urbanisme before the expiry date to explore your options.
What to do if the city refuses?
The city will send you a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. Read these reasons carefully and correct any problem areas. You can then submit a revised application. If you feel the refusal is unjustified, you can request a meeting with an urban planning officer to clarify the situation. In some cases, you may need to apply for a minor variance.
What's the difference between a building certificate and a building permit?
The certificate of authorization confirms that your project complies with urban planning regulations (zoning, appearance, use). The building permit confirms that the work complies with the Building Code (structure, safety, technical standards). For many projects, you need both. The certificate of authorization is usually obtained first.
Who approves the certificates (CCU or City)?
It depends on the type of project. Simple requests are approved directly by the professionals at the Direction de l'urbanisme. Larger projects, those located in sensitive areas, or those requiring a variance must be submitted to the Planning Advisory Committee (PAC) for recommendation before final approval by the Town.
Are there any discounts for eco-responsible projects?
The City of Longueuil has been offering accelerated processing for eco-responsible projects since 2025, but fees generally remain the same. On the other hand, certain green projects may be eligible for subsidies or municipal tax credits. Check with your urban planning department or consult the Plan d'urbanisme 2035 for available incentives.
Questions about your specific project? Contact Cartago Construction at 438-932-4326 - our team will guide you through the process free of charge and answer all your questions.
Visit cartagoconstruction.ca to learn more about our compliance and urban planning services in Longueuil.
