Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the questions residents ask most - each links to the full page with sources.
Do I need a permit to install a pool?
Yes. Above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and spas all require a permit from the City's Urban Planning Service before installation, and every pool must meet Quebec's provincial pool-safety enclosure rules. See Swimming Pool Rules.
When is overnight winter parking banned on the street?
From November 15 to April 1, street parking is banned every night from midnight to 7 a.m. unless the City announces an exception. Check the daily recorded update at 450 455-3372. See Parking Rules.
When can I install a temporary carport in Vaudreuil-Dorion?
The bare structure is allowed from October 15 to April 15; the canvas covering can only go up starting November 1. One carport per lot, maximum 65 m² footprint, with minimum distances from the sidewalk, street, and fire hydrants. See Snow Removal Rules for the exact distances and a diagram.
What day is my garbage or recycling collected?
It depends on your street/sector - use the City's address-lookup tool rather than a general schedule. See Garbage & Recycling for bin colours and general collection rhythm.
Can I let my dog off-leash?
Only in one of the five designated off-leash areas. Elsewhere, dogs must be leashed (2 m maximum) or otherwise confined, though leashed dogs are allowed in most municipal parks. See Pet Rules.
Do I need to license my cat or dog?
Yes - a lifetime municipal medallion is mandatory for both cats and dogs, and dogs must also be microchipped. See Pet Rules.
Who do I call for a non-emergency city issue, like a pothole or water main break?
Call 3-1-1. It's separate from 911, which is for life-threatening emergencies only. See Important City Contacts.
How tall can my grass legally grow?
Grass and weeds generally can't exceed 30 cm, though this figure comes from a secondary source rather than a directly confirmed bylaw citation - see Lawn Mowing Rules for details and the confirmation note.
Is Vaudreuil-Dorion served by Montreal's REM light-rail network?
No - not currently. The REM's western branch ends at Anse-à-l'Orme on Montreal's West Island and doesn't cross into Vaudreuil-Soulanges. See Transportation.
Where's the écocentre, and what can I bring?
Écocentre Vaudreuil-Soulanges is at 2800 rue Henry-Ford. It accepts construction debris and other bulky materials that don't belong curbside; MRC residents get 12 m³ free per year. See Garbage & Recycling.
Who should I contact before starting a renovation or building a fence?
The Urban Planning Service (450 455-3371, infourbanisme@ville.vaudreuil-dorion.qc.ca) before you start - renovations, fences, sheds, patios, and pools all typically need a permit. See Permits & Licenses.
What is there to do in Vaudreuil-Dorion?
More than 50 parks, a 63.7 km network of bike paths, a working vineyard, and heritage sites like Maison Trestler (1798) and the Musée régional de Vaudreuil-Soulanges. Le 405, a waterfront park on Vaudreuil Bay, hosts the city's circus festival every summer. See Attractions and Parks & Trails.
How far is Vaudreuil-Dorion from Montreal?
About 30 to 40 minutes west of downtown Montreal, on the south shore of Lac des Deux Montagnes. See City Overview.
Can you get to Vaudreuil-Dorion by train from Montreal?
Yes - the exo Vaudreuil-Hudson commuter train serves the Vaudreuil station, with park-and-ride. See Transportation for fares and frequency.
What festivals happen in Vaudreuil-Dorion?
The biggest is the circus festival at Le 405 park - one of Quebec's largest street and circus-arts festivals, drawing roughly 50,000 visitors - combined with a fireworks show marking the start of summer. See Annual Events for the full calendar.
Can't find your question? Check City Rules, Services, or Important Contacts.