If you’re opening a restaurant in Alberta—whether in Calgary, Edmonton, or other cities—you may be required to install an ecology unit (also called an ecologizer, pollution control unit, or PCU). These systems are becoming increasingly common in commercial kitchens, especially in downtown, mixed-use, or heritage buildings, where simply venting smoke and grease outdoors is no longer allowed due to changing legal codes and standards.
Understanding what an ecology unit is, when it’s required, and how it impacts your restaurant lease negotiations can save you time, money, and future compliance issues.
What Is an Ecology Unit in a Commercial Kitchen?
An ecology unit (or PCU) is a filtration system added to a commercial kitchen’s exhaust system. It cleans the air from your cooking line before it exits the building, reducing smoke, grease, and odors that could otherwise impact neighbors or pedestrians.
Unlike a standard kitchen exhaust system, a PCU uses multiple filters to capture and neutralize pollutants:
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Grease filters – trap larger grease particles
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Electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) – capture fine grease mist and smoke
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Activated carbon filters – absorb odors before exhaust is released
Some advanced models also use UV light or chemical scrubbers, though these are less common in Alberta kitchens.
When Do Alberta Restaurants Need an Ecology Unit?
There is no single rule across Alberta—but municipal bylaws, building codes, and NFPA 96 fire standards guide when ecology units are required.
Common Scenarios in Calgary and Edmonton
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Mixed-use and high-rise buildings – Condos and office towers often don’t allow ducts running to the roof, making filtered sidewall exhaust the only option.
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Food courts and heritage properties – Many shopping centres and historic buildings require PCUs to avoid nuisance complaints.
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Heavy-cooking restaurants – BBQ, fried chicken, Asian cuisine, and seafood concepts often trigger PCU requirements due to smoke, grease, and odor output.
A Tip From Leaseco: Always confirm PCU requirements during your lease negotiation, since they can add significant cost.
Ecology Units and Fire Safety
Ecology units help reduce grease buildup in ducts, which lowers fire risk, but they are not a substitute for mandatory systems. Alberta restaurants must still install and maintain:
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ULC-certified kitchen hood suppression systems
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Regular grease duct cleaning schedules
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Approved exhaust fans and ventilation systems
Think of a PCU as an extra layer of safety and odor control, not a replacement for fire code compliance.
Costs and Maintenance of Ecology Units
Upfront Costs
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Expect to spend $30,000–$100,000+ depending on unit size and filtration type.
Ongoing Costs
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Filter cleaning or replacement (ESP cells, carbon blocks)
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Scheduled inspections to maintain performance
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Possible savings from reduced duct cleaning frequency
Why Ecology Units Matter in Leasing Negotiations
If you’re leasing space in a downtown Calgary restaurant space or Edmonton food court, an ecology unit may be the only way to get city approval. For landlords, requiring PCUs protects the property and other tenants from nuisance issues. For tenants, agreeing to install one can make your offer more attractive when competing for high-demand locations.
Key Takeaways for Alberta Restaurant Operators
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Definition: Ecology units (pollution control units) filter grease, smoke, and odors from kitchen exhaust.
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Requirement: They are often required in mixed-use, high-rise, food court, and heritage buildings, and for grease-heavy cuisines.
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Fire Code: Ecology units work alongside NFPA 96 requirements, not in place of them.
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Cost: Expect high upfront investment plus ongoing maintenance.
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Leasing: Discuss ecology units early in negotiations and budget accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Installing an ecology unit in Calgary or Edmonton can feel like a major expense, but in many locations it’s the only way to operate a restaurant legally and responsibly. By planning ahead, consulting with an HVAC engineer, and negotiating fairly with your landlord, you can turn a regulatory hurdle into a long-term investment in your restaurant’s success.
Need guidance in negotiating a Tenant Improvement Allowance for your ecology unit? Contact Leaseco Realty to save money, time, and peace of mind.