Business Licenses
If you are conducting business within the Town of Canmore on a temporary or long-term basis, you are required to obtain a Canmore business license prior to operating.
Unsure of what type of business license you need, or what documents to submit? Click here.
Application Process
Application processing times may vary depending on the type of license, completion of the application, and department workload at the time of submission.
After your application is processed, you will be sent payment options which include online payment, online banking, phone, or cheque by mail.
Due to the volume of inquiries, please do not follow-up on your application with a phone call. All applications will be responded to via email in a timely manner, in order of receipt. All applications can be submitted by emailing your application and all supporting documents to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
After your application is processed, you will be sent payment options which include online payment, online banking, phone, or cheque by mail.
Due to the volume of inquiries, please do not follow-up on your application with a phone call. All applications will be responded to via email in a timely manner, in order of receipt. All applications can be submitted by emailing your application and all supporting documents to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Renewal Process
If you hold an annual license, you will receive an invoice by mail or email depending on how your account is set up with the Town. Payment for the upcoming years’ license is due by December 31 of the current year. You can pay online here (search by license number) or call the Civic Centre at 403.678.1500 and press 9. For third party bank transfer, or cheque mail-in options, refer to your invoice.
Need to update or make changes to your business information? click here
Business License & Other Application Options
If you are conducting business within the Town of Canmore on a temporary or long-term basis, you are required to obtain a Canmore business license prior to operating. Unsure of what business license you need? Click here.
Out of Town Business License
Any business from out of town is required to obtain a Town of Canmore business license to conduct work within the Town of Canmore. For additional permits related to photographers and filmmakers, please see the section on Other Documents and Permits.
Annual License - $600
Four Month License - $350
One Month License - $150
Three Day License - $75
Note that the annual license is pro-rated throughout the year.
If you are located in Harvie Heights, Exshaw or Deadman’s Flats, please see the see the Canmore Resident Home Occupation or Commercial business license options since you qualify for the Canmore Resident rate as per an agreement between the Town of Canmore and Municipal District of Big Horn. Proof of residence will be required (ie. copy of driver’s license, signed rental agreement or proof of ownership). Please note that this agreement is subject to change without notice.
Click here to download the out of town business license application form
Average processing time: up to 10 business days. Processing times may vary.
Annual License - $600
Four Month License - $350
One Month License - $150
Three Day License - $75
Note that the annual license is pro-rated throughout the year.
If you are located in Harvie Heights, Exshaw or Deadman’s Flats, please see the see the Canmore Resident Home Occupation or Commercial business license options since you qualify for the Canmore Resident rate as per an agreement between the Town of Canmore and Municipal District of Big Horn. Proof of residence will be required (ie. copy of driver’s license, signed rental agreement or proof of ownership). Please note that this agreement is subject to change without notice.
Click here to download the out of town business license application form
Average processing time: up to 10 business days. Processing times may vary.
This business license type applies to those who operate their business from their home in Canmore. This also applies to Canmore-based mobile businesses and e-commerce/online businesses.
Annual License - $130
Micro-Business - $32.50*
Note that the annual license is pro-rated throughout the year.
*Micro-business status is applicable only to Canmore-resident businesses whose business makes less than $30,000 in annual gross revenue (i.e. revenue before any expenses are paid). Please leave witness signature blank since we will act as your virtual witness.
Application must include the following:
o pdf Application form (134 KB)
o Trade Name Registration / Proof of Filing: Only applicable if you are operating as a name other than your own personal first and last name.
o To register your trade name:
o Proof of residence: Only applicable if you are renting and/or do not appear on the title of ownership. This can be a copy of your signed rent agreement, copy of your driver’s license, or a utility/another bill with your name and address.
Other documents may be requested depending on your type of business or if you qualify as a Class 2 Home Occupation as indicated on your application form.
Average processing time of complete applications: Up to 15 business days. Processing times may vary and not submitting all correct documents upfront can significantly delay the process.
Annual License - $130
Micro-Business - $32.50*
Note that the annual license is pro-rated throughout the year.
*Micro-business status is applicable only to Canmore-resident businesses whose business makes less than $30,000 in annual gross revenue (i.e. revenue before any expenses are paid). Please leave witness signature blank since we will act as your virtual witness.
Application must include the following:
o pdf Application form (134 KB)
o Trade Name Registration / Proof of Filing: Only applicable if you are operating as a name other than your own personal first and last name.
o To register your trade name:
Fill out the form referred to in Step 3 at this link.
Submit the form to the Canmore Registry, and they will issue you a formal document.
Submit that formal document to us with your business license application.
o Proof of residence: Only applicable if you are renting and/or do not appear on the title of ownership. This can be a copy of your signed rent agreement, copy of your driver’s license, or a utility/another bill with your name and address.
Other documents may be requested depending on your type of business or if you qualify as a Class 2 Home Occupation as indicated on your application form.
Average processing time of complete applications: Up to 15 business days. Processing times may vary and not submitting all correct documents upfront can significantly delay the process.
Canmore Commercial Business
This business license type applies to those who operate their business out of commercial property within Canmore.
Annual License – Varies. See the application form for pricing.
Micro-Business* – Quarter of the annual rate
Note that the annual license is pro-rated throughout the year.
*Micro-business status is applicable only to Canmore-based businesses whose business makes less than $30,000 annual gross revenue (i.e. Revenue before any expenses are paid). Please leave the witness signature blank since we will act as your virtual witness.
Application must include the following:
o pdf Commercial Business Registry Application (210 KB)
o Trade Name Registration / Proof of Filing: Only applicable if you are operating as a name other than your own personal first and last name.
o Certificate of Incorporation, if applicable
o Proof of Commercial Space Occupancy: This can be a copy of your signed lease agreement. Proof of purchase may be required if property was recently purchased and/or you do not appear on title.
o Town of Canmore Planning approvals: Development Permit, Conformance Report, or Change of Use permit, if applicable. To inquire, contact canmore.ca/planning.
o AHS Health Inspection: if applicable, a copy of the approved health inspection report
o Fire Inspection: if applicable, a copy of the approved fire inspection report
o Other documents may be requested.
Are you unsure of what documents are required? pdf Review this document for insight (708 KB)
Average processing time of complete applications: Up to 28 business days. Processing times may vary.
Annual License – Varies. See the application form for pricing.
Micro-Business* – Quarter of the annual rate
Note that the annual license is pro-rated throughout the year.
*Micro-business status is applicable only to Canmore-based businesses whose business makes less than $30,000 annual gross revenue (i.e. Revenue before any expenses are paid). Please leave the witness signature blank since we will act as your virtual witness.
Application must include the following:
o pdf Commercial Business Registry Application (210 KB)
o Trade Name Registration / Proof of Filing: Only applicable if you are operating as a name other than your own personal first and last name.
o Certificate of Incorporation, if applicable
o Proof of Commercial Space Occupancy: This can be a copy of your signed lease agreement. Proof of purchase may be required if property was recently purchased and/or you do not appear on title.
o Town of Canmore Planning approvals: Development Permit, Conformance Report, or Change of Use permit, if applicable. To inquire, contact canmore.ca/planning.
o AHS Health Inspection: if applicable, a copy of the approved health inspection report
o Fire Inspection: if applicable, a copy of the approved fire inspection report
o Other documents may be requested.
Are you unsure of what documents are required? pdf Review this document for insight (708 KB)
Average processing time of complete applications: Up to 28 business days. Processing times may vary.
Vacation Rentals
If you are renting a property as a vacation rental, i.e. tourist home, short-term rental, B&B, or Air BNB, a license must be obtained from the Town of Canmore
Important Information
The only exception is if your property is located within a property management building that handles/manages the rental units within, or if you are a part of your building’s rental pool. In those cases, the property management company has a business license to cover all rentals that they themselves manage.
If you recently purchased your property, you may be asked to provide proof of purchase since your name may not yet appear on the title as the owner of the property at the time of your application.
Average processing time of complete applications: 15 business days. Processing times may vary.
Click here for information on zoning, planning permits, and permissions.
If you are applying to operate a B&B: Health Inspection may be required. To inquire, please contact the AHS Health Inspector at 403.678.5656.
If an AHS inspection is needed, with your application for a B&B business license, please submit a copy of your AHS inspection report. If one is not needed, please submit the email from AHS verifying this.
If you recently purchased your property, you may be asked to provide proof of purchase since your name may not yet appear on the title as the owner of the property at the time of your application.
Average processing time of complete applications: 15 business days. Processing times may vary.
Click here for information on zoning, planning permits, and permissions.
If you are applying to operate a B&B: Health Inspection may be required. To inquire, please contact the AHS Health Inspector at 403.678.5656.
If an AHS inspection is needed, with your application for a B&B business license, please submit a copy of your AHS inspection report. If one is not needed, please submit the email from AHS verifying this.
What business license do I need to operate a vacation rental property?
If you reside outside of Canmore
Complete only the vacation rental application. You will be issued an out-of-town business license, and this vacation rental will be put on your file.
Click here to download the Vacation Rental application
Cost for annual license: $600
Processing times may vary.
Click here to download the Vacation Rental application
Cost for annual license: $600
Processing times may vary.
If you are a resident of Canmore
Complete the vacation rental application and a Home Occupation business license application. You will be issued a home occupation license (ie. for you to manage your rental property from your home), and your vacation rental application will go on file.
pdf Click here to download the Vacation Rental application
(143 KB) Cost for annual license: $130
Processing times may vary.
pdf Click here to download the Vacation Rental application
(143 KB) Cost for annual license: $130
Processing times may vary.
Application must include the following:
o
pdf
Application form
(273 KB)
.
o Trade Name Registration / Proof of Filing: Only applicable if you are operating as a name other than your own personal first and last name. To register your trade name:
o Fill out the form referred to in Step 3 at this link.
o Submit the form to the Canmore Registry and they will issue you formal documents
o Submit that formal document to us with your business license application
o Certificate of Incorporation, if applicable
o Proof of residence: Only applicable if you are renting and/or do not appear on the title of ownership. This can be a copy of your signed rental agreement, a copy of your driver’s license, or a utility/other bill with your name and address.
If you are a Canmore-based property management company operating out of a commercial property
Complete the vacation rental application. This will go on your commercial business license account file. If you do not already possess a Commercial Resident business license, complete the application.
Click here for more information
pdf Click here to download the Vacation Rental application
(143 KB) There is no cost to add a vacation rental to your existing property. pdf
(143 KB)
Click here for more information
pdf Click here to download the Vacation Rental application
(143 KB) There is no cost to add a vacation rental to your existing property. pdf
(143 KB)
Food Trucks, Special Events & Vendors
Required by any person who wishes to set up a push-cart, wagon or other wheeled or skidded vehicle, mobile preparation unit, stall, booth, table or space for the sale or distribution of processed or unprocessed foodstuffs or retail items.
Annual: $150
2-3 Days: $50
1-Day: $25
Note that the annual license is pro-rated throughout the year.
pdf Download the application form
(24 KB) pdf Important to review: Guideline for Vendors (235 KB)
Average processing time: 15 business days. Processing times may vary.
Annual: $150
2-3 Days: $50
1-Day: $25
Note that the annual license is pro-rated throughout the year.
pdf Download the application form
(24 KB) pdf Important to review: Guideline for Vendors (235 KB)
Average processing time: 15 business days. Processing times may vary.
Special Event Business Registry License
Organizers of special events are required to hold a valid business license unless exempt from such requirement as per the business registry bylaw. Special events are those that have been issued a permit – Community Event Permit, or facility rental agreement, from the Town of Canmore.
Organizers of special events are responsible for ensuring that all vendors and service providers at their event hold a valid Canmore business license, or that they are covered under the organizer’s blanket business license (ie. the organizer’s special event business registry license).
Event with 1-2 vendors/service providers: $25 per day
Event with 3 or more vendors/service providers: $75 per day
pdf Download the application form
(115 KB) Important to review for organizers of community events: Community Event Permitting
Average processing time: 28 business days. Processing times may vary.
Organizers of special events are responsible for ensuring that all vendors and service providers at their event hold a valid Canmore business license, or that they are covered under the organizer’s blanket business license (ie. the organizer’s special event business registry license).
Event with 1-2 vendors/service providers: $25 per day
Event with 3 or more vendors/service providers: $75 per day
pdf Download the application form
(115 KB) Important to review for organizers of community events: Community Event Permitting
Average processing time: 28 business days. Processing times may vary.
Food Trucks
The Town does not currently permit food trucks to make use of roadways/sideways/paths, however if a business owner were to enter into an agreement with a private property owner to rent space on their lot to run their food truck business, they would be able to apply for a Vendor license. A condition of obtaining a Vendor license in this instance would be to obtain a Development Permit or other permissions from the Town's Planning Department for the food truck to be stationed on that property. To connect with the Planning Department, please click the blue contact button to the right of this page.
When ready to submit a vendor license application for your food truck, please email your application package including:
1. The application form.
2. Trade Name Registration for your business.
3. Private property rental agreement (address and signature pages suffice)
4. Permissions from Planning, if provided.
When ready to submit a vendor license application for your food truck, please email your application package including:
1. The application form.
2. Trade Name Registration for your business.
3. Private property rental agreement (address and signature pages suffice)
4. Permissions from Planning, if provided.
Busking
Busking in Canmore
Please note, Town of Canmore will not issue busking licences in 2021 as long as COVID-19 poses a threat to public health and physical distancing requirements prohibit people from large gatherings.
Busking License
Busking licenses will be issued at the same rate as our Micro Business License of $32.50 for the busking season.
Busking Conditions
Buskers must always carry their permit on their person during a performance and will supply upon demand of a Bylaw Officer or Peace officer. Failure to do so could result in a fine subject to the Business Registry Bylaw.
Busking is permitted only in areas identified by the Town of Canmore (Civic Centre Plaza, Friendship Park, Riverside Park, and Elevation Place plaza.) and may only perform from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., from May 1 to Oct. 31. Any busking done outside of these parameters is subject to penalties, and could result in, but are not limited to a financial fine, revoking of permits, and inability to apply for permit in following calendar year.
Busking License
Busking licenses will be issued at the same rate as our Micro Business License of $32.50 for the busking season.
Busking Conditions
Buskers must always carry their permit on their person during a performance and will supply upon demand of a Bylaw Officer or Peace officer. Failure to do so could result in a fine subject to the Business Registry Bylaw.
Busking is permitted only in areas identified by the Town of Canmore (Civic Centre Plaza, Friendship Park, Riverside Park, and Elevation Place plaza.) and may only perform from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., from May 1 to Oct. 31. Any busking done outside of these parameters is subject to penalties, and could result in, but are not limited to a financial fine, revoking of permits, and inability to apply for permit in following calendar year.
Other Documents & Permits
Before submitting your business license application, or vacation rental application, please ensure that you have secured all necessary supporting documentation.
Trade Name Registration / Proof of Filing
Required for Canmore-based businesses who operate as a name other than the owner’s legal name. For example, if your name is Jane Doe and you call your business Jane Doe, you do not need to register that name. However, if you call it Jane Doe’s Massage or Mountain Massage, you would need to register that name. For information on registering a business name in Alberta, please visit alberta.ca
To register:
o Fill out the form referred to in Step 3 at this link.
o Submit the form to the Canmore Registry, and they will issue you a formal document
Planning & Development Permits
A development permit is needed for most new construction, or any time there is a change in the way land is used or the intensity of use is changed. For more information and to apply, click here
If doing renovations, you likely need a building permit, please visit Planning Department online.
If doing renovations, you likely need a building permit, please visit Planning Department online.
Signage Permit & Regulations
Prior to ordering any signs, refer to the Sign Regulations and complete the Development Permit Application - Signage form found here. For inquiries, click "contact us" here.
Film Permit (Photo or Motion)
While a business license gives you license to conduct business in Canmore, a film permit gives you permission to shoot within the Town of Canmore on public property, i.e. parks, trails, sidewalks, etc. For the application form and requirements, please click here. If you have questions, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Alberta Health Services Health Inspection
To arrange an inspection, please contact the AHS Health Inspector at 403.678.5656. This is required for food and drink establishments and may be required for personal health or personal care services. For more information, visit AHS online.
Fire Inspection
Set up your appointment 30 days in advance of the anticipated opening. To book a fire inspection please call: 403.678.6199 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Restaurants – Grease Trap/Interceptor Schedule
All restaurants are required to have a grease trap (interceptor) and submit an annual maintenance schedule to Public Works. Contact Public Works at 403.678.1580 for more information.
Non-Municipal Permits and Licenses
As a business owner, it is your responsibility to comply with municipal, provincial, federal, and sector-specific regulations and guidelines pertaining to your operation.
Click here to find the permits and licenses you need for your business
Click here to find the permits and licenses you need for your business
Automotive Repair and Dealership Approvals
If you are opening an automotive repair shop or dealership you must contact AMVIC and get approval prior to obtaining your Town license. Contact: 877.979.8100
Closing Your Business?
Note that all changes must be submitted by the business owner. License cancellations are only accepted in writing/email, submitted by the business owner.
If you are closing your business, you must notify the Business Registry with the business name and/or license number, and date of closure. Submit by email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or written letter to Business Registry, 902 7 Avenue, Canmore, AB, T1W 3K1.
Updating Information or New Ownership
Note that all changes must be submitted by the business owner or authorized contact. See below for details.
If you wish to make a change to your business’s contact information, location, or types of services offered,
pdf
please complete the change form
(191 KB)
and submit it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Moving locations?
Submit a
pdf
change form
(191 KB)
, and if you are not on title (ie. do not own the property), also submit proof of residence (i.e. rental agreement for home-based business, or commercial property).
If you are moving to a location that impacts your business type (i.e.. from home occupation to commercial, or from Canmore-based to out-of-town), you will need to apply for a new business license.
If you are moving to a location that impacts your business type (i.e.. from home occupation to commercial, or from Canmore-based to out-of-town), you will need to apply for a new business license.
Complete change of ownership?
The current business license holder must submit a written cancellation notice to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and the new owner must submit a business license application of their own. Business transfer or sale agreement will also need to be submitted with new application.
Business License Bylaw Non-Compliance
Any person who contravenes with the provisions of the
pdf
business registry bylaw
(271 KB)
shall be liable for a penalty of up to $1,000.00 plus the applicable license fee. Any person who unlawfully completes the statutory declaration of a micro-business shall be liable for a minimum penalty of $1,500 plus the applicable license fee.
Business Directory
Use the interactive Business Directory map to find businesses that have given consent to be listed.
You may also contact the Business Registry office to inquire if a business is licensed to operate within the Town of Canmore. Business name must be provided at the time of inquiry, as information cannot be given based on the home address, owner’s name or contact information.
You may also contact the Business Registry office to inquire if a business is licensed to operate within the Town of Canmore. Business name must be provided at the time of inquiry, as information cannot be given based on the home address, owner’s name or contact information.
COVID-19 Support for Businesses
Town of Canmore Business Support Hub: Click here for information related to COVID-19, resources, programs, the Economic Recovery Plan, and information on the Mandatory Mask Bylaw.
Stay informed: Sign-up for our business update newsletter brought to you by the Town of Canmore’s Economic Development Department. Click here to sign-up.
Alberta Biz-Connect: Click here to access the Provincial government’s latest workplace guidance and supports to help businesses and non-profits affected by COVID-19.
Stay informed: Sign-up for our business update newsletter brought to you by the Town of Canmore’s Economic Development Department. Click here to sign-up.
Alberta Biz-Connect: Click here to access the Provincial government’s latest workplace guidance and supports to help businesses and non-profits affected by COVID-19.
For more information on business licenses, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 403.678.1523
