Refrigeration

Refrigeration system examples include:

• self-contained and/or split systems, tested and certified by a certification agency accredited by the Standards Council of Canada, and conforming to CSA B52 section 5.2; and
• field constructed refrigeration systems, and/or prefabricated refrigeration systems, designed, registered, installed, tested, and inspected by a licensed refrigeration contractor.

What Work Can be Performed Without a Permit?

Some activities may be performed by a qualified refrigeration mechanic working under a valid refrigeration contractors license, without an installation permit. These activities include:

• installing a pressure vessel on a refrigeration system;
• replacing valves, controls, piping, refrigerant or relief devices with components of a similar type that have been approved by a provincial safety manager or a similar regulatory authority in another province; and
• maintaining or overhauling refrigeration system components.

The following equipment does not require an installation permit as it is exempt from the application of the Power Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel, and Refrigeration Safety Regulation:

• a refrigeration system with a total prime mover kW rating less than 5kw;
• a refrigeration system, not containing toxic or flammable contents, that is located in a building that contains four or fewer self-contained residential units; and
• a refrigeration system on railway cars, motor vehicles, motor-drawn vehicles, aircraft, or ships.

View a full list of equipment that is exempt from the application of the regulation.

1. If applicable, register your refrigeration system before applying for an installation permit. Once your design registration is approved, you will receive a Canadian Design Registration Number (CRN) that is needed for the installation permit.
   
   Refrigeration systems that are tested and certified by a certification agency accredited by the Standards Council of Canada and conform to CSA B52 section 5.2 are exempt from registration. Certification information is needed for installation permit application process.
 
2. Apply and pay for a permit through your Online Services account or by filling out the application form online and submitting payment through mail or by calling our Contact Centre.
 
3. Once your application is approved, we will issue you a permit number.
 
4. Once the installation is completed, the Boiler and Refrigeration Declaration form must be submitted to notify us that all work has been completed. Declarations may also be submitted online through your Online Services account.
 
5. We will process the request and assess if a physical or remote inspection is required.