Business Licenses
If you are conducting business in the Town of Canmore you are required to have a local business license. If you are only working in town for a few days we offer a temporary business license that may suit your needs.
Out of Town Businesses
Any business from out of town is required to have a Town of Canmore business license.
Out of Town Business License Options
Annual License - $600
Four Month License - $350
One Month License - $150
Three Day License - $75
Special Event License - $75/day
To download the out of town business license application form click here
To download the special event license application form pdf click here (115 KB)
Four Month License - $350
One Month License - $150
Three Day License - $75
Special Event License - $75/day
To download the out of town business license application form click here
To download the special event license application form pdf click here (115 KB)
Is a business license needed if my business is not physically located in Canmore?
Yes. A Canmore business license is needed if you are conducting work in the Town of Canmore even if your physical office is not located in town.
How long will it take for my application to be approved?
Business licenses can take 2 - 3 weeks to issue after applying, however can take longer in cases where we do not receive the correct documentation up front.
Starting a New Local Business
Any business with a permanent address in the Town of Canmore requires a business license to operate.
Business License Options
Complete the Business Licence Application Form and attach copies of the Trade Name and Lease Agreement documents. (If applicable). Once ALL approvals have been met, the business licence will be issued.
To download the home based business application form pdf click here (134 KB)
To download the commercial business application form pdf click here (210 KB)
To download the vacation rental application form pdf click here (143 KB)
To download the home based business application form pdf click here (134 KB)
To download the commercial business application form pdf click here (210 KB)
To download the vacation rental application form pdf click here (143 KB)
Consider your Location
The first thing you should consider is the physical location. The business location you choose has to be zoned for that particular purpose. Prior to signing a lease call the Planning Department at 403.678.1543 to see if that location is approved for your type of business. You may need a Confirmation of Zoning or a Development Permit for a change of use.
Are you doing renovations?
If so, you will likely require a Building Permit. An Occupancy Certificate will be issued once construction is complete. Contact the Planning Department at 403.678.1543 to inquire if a permit is required.
All signage requires a permit
Prior to ordering any signs, refer to the Sign Regulations and complete the "Development Permit Application - Signage" form. Contact: Planning 403.678.1543 - www.canmore.ca/lub/section10
Automotive Repair or Dealerships
If you are opening an automotive repair shop or dealership you must contact AMVIC and get approval prior to obtaining your Town licence. Contact: 877.979.8100 www.amvic.org
Food, Salons, Tattoos or other Health Services
You will require a certificate from Alberta Health Services if you are dealing with food, salons, tattoos and other personal health services. Contact: Health Inspector at 403.678.5656 for guidelines and an appointment. http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/8302.asp
Waste & Recycling Plan
Consider how you are going to manage your waste and recycling and what type of disposal is going to be necessary to operate your business. 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.
Choosing a Business Name
Did you choose a name for your business. If you are using a name other than your first and last name you must provide the Town with a copy of your Trade Name Registration from the registry office. Contact: Canmore Registry at 104 - 837 Main Street—Phone 403.678.9320.
Fire Inspections
Fire Inspections must be conducted prior to opening your business and ‘all’ applicable approvals listed in Steps 1 to 7 must be met before the fire inspection is done. Set up your appointment 30 days in advance of anticipated opening. To book a fire inspection please call: 403.678.6199 or email both: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. & This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Contact
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
