Business Registry

The following information outlines the Canmore Business Registry and licensing program. For additional information, please contact the Business Registry Coordinator at the Civic Center. To browse the Business Directory online, click here.

For information about the Canmore Mountain Market, click here.

Hours: 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday
Phone: (403) 678-1503
Fax: (403) 678-1524
E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Address: 902 7th Avenue
Canmore, AB  T1W-3K1


Who needs a Business Licence?
Any person or business advertising or conducting business in Canmore is required by Town Bylaw to hold a valid business registry licence.

“Business" is defined as:

  1. a commercial, merchandising, marketing  or industrial  activity or undertaking;
  2. a profession, trade, occupation, calling or employment; or
  3. an activity providing goods or services,
  4. whether or not for profit and however organized or formed, including a co-operative or association of persons.

“Carry On Business" is defined as operate, perform, keep, hold, occupy, deal in or use, for gain, whether as principal or agent.

 

Why apply for a Business Licence?

A valid Business Licence ensures that all businesses and their premises comply with relevant Town bylaws for the safety of the public and to minimize nuisances and misleading business practices.

For businesses operating out a residence within the Town of Canmore a Development Permit must tbe obtained from the Town of Canmore Planning and Development Department at the same time that the Business Licence is obtained. 

Businesses operating out of a commercial business location are encouraged to contact the Town of Canmore Planning and Development Department prior to entering into purchase or lease agreements to verify compliance with the Land Use Bylaw.


When is a new Business Licence required?

A new Business Licence is required when a business starts up, changes ownership, relocates, opens other locations or works in the Town of Canmore on a temporary basis. Hawkers, Peddlers and Door to Door sales included.

 

How do I apply for a Business Licence?

Business Licence applications may be submitted at the Town of Canmore Civic Center Reception location as well as by email, fax and mail.  The Business Registry Coordinator will contact the applicant regarding the application, the business classification and the fees.

Business Licence applications will only be processed after compliance with the Land Use Bylaw is confirmed. Depending on the nature of the business, additional approval from Environmental Services, AMVIC, Calgary Health Authority or the RCMP may also be required. Contact the Busisness Registry Coordinator for further information.

Click here to download a fillable Business Registry Application and Fee Schedule (under 'Business Registry' heading).

 

How long will it take to receive the Business Licence?

Processing time for a Business Licence application depends on the type and complexity of the business.

Resident, Home Occupation or B&B Business Licences with no outstanding bylaw issues can be issued within three to four weeks from the date the application was received. Non-resident Business Licence applications are generally processed within three business days.

For more information please contact the Business Registry Coordinator.


Fees

Business Licence fees may be paid by cash, cheque, Interac, Master Card or Visa. The first year fee for a Business Licence may be pro-rated depending on the date that the application is accepted. The earliest pro-rate date of each calendar year is July 1.

Businesses classified by the Town of Canmore Planning and Development Department as a Home Occupation 2 will renew both their Business Licence and their Home Occupation Permit at the same time.

Click here to download the Business Registry Application and Fee Schedule or Business Registry Payment Form (under 'Business Registry' heading).

 

Types of Licences

There are generally six types of business registry licences:
 
  1. Resident businesses have a permanent commercial location in Canmore. These businesses operate from offices, retail locations, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities.
  2. Home Occupation 1 are for a Desk & Telephone business that operates out of your residence. They require a Development Permit through the Planning and Development Department before a Business Licence may be issued. 
  3. Home Occupation 2 are for a small business that operates out of your residence. They require a Development Permit through the Planning and Development Department before a Business Licence may be issued.
  4. Non-resident businesses operate in Canmore on a temporary basis. These businesses may include building trades contractors, security companies or businesses that have no fixed business location in Canmore.
  5. Bed & Breakfast is similar to a home occupation. A Bed & Breakfast Development Permit is required by the Planning and Development Department before a Business Licence may be issued.
  6. Special Service licences are available to out-of-town businesses which provide unique services which cannot be offered by a local provider.

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