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Learn more about Edmonton's Business Licence Bylaw and other regulations that business owners need to know.
The came into effect on January 17, 2022, and provides clearer, more consistent regulations that help reduce barriers for businesses. It also allows the City to respond more quickly and decisively to new and emerging business types.
The bylaw contains a
The City of Edmonton’s states that every person or company that conducts business in Edmonton is required to have a business licence.
A business licence indicates to your customers that you run a responsible business that follows the rules and regulations, including zoning, health, fire and building code, and public safety requirements. Requiring all businesses to meet minimum regulatory standards also helps create a level playing field within the business community.
Tools to find a business location and permit and business licence information to help you start your business in Edmonton.
Do you need to register your business or corporation name? Register through Service Alberta.
Prior to applying for your business licence, we encourage you to take some time to ensure that the location where you want to operate your business is zoned for your business activity. Zoning is a set of rules that limit the activities and buildings that can occur in a certain location. Please visit the zoning approval for your business page for more information on zoning and how to find a location that is zoned for your proposed business activity.
Once you have found a potential location, it is still recommended that you speak with City staff before you sign a lease to confirm whether your business activity is allowed at that location. This due diligence is the responsibility of the business owner as a part of making an informed and responsible investment decision.
Even If your business activity is allowed in the zone for your proposed business location, it doesn’t mean your business licence application will automatically be approved. You may still need development and/or building permits before the City can review your business licence application and render a decision (see the Permit Requirements tab).
If your business activity is not allowed in the zone, you may need to inquire about applying for a rezoning or select a different location where the zoning allows your business activity.
Rezoning can be a long and complicated process. If you choose to apply for a rezoning we recommend hiring a professional planner.
When filling out your licence application, please describe your business activities in as much detail as possible as it helps staff reviewing your application understand your business, potentially saving you time, money and further follow up on your application.
Based on the description of business activities provided on your application form, the City will assign the appropriate licence categories to your business. Multiple categories may apply depending on your business activities.
Once licence categories are assigned to your business, City staff will give you further information regarding any additional documentation required to finish processing your application.
Even if your business activity is allowed in the zone where your proposed business is located, you may still need a development permit and/or building permits before your business licence can be approved. These permits help ensure that what is built is safe, meets regulatory requirements and fits in with the surrounding community.
Permits are needed if you are:
You may need to make renovations even if you hadn’t originally planned on it. The City encourages businesses to consider hiring professional contractors and designers to assist them, especially for more complex projects.
Depending on your business, you may also be subject to additional regulatory requirements from other agencies (such as Alberta Health Services, Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis, and other government regulators).
Are you a small business owner? Is this your first or second time opening a business?
To book your one-on-one appointment with Business-Friendly Support, please fill out the intake form.
If you have lost or damaged your licence certificate, please contact the Edmonton Service Centre to request a replacement.
Additional resources to help make your business in Edmonton a success.
Each category provides a brief description of the type of business and any specific rules, regulations and application requirements related to the business activity.
The Zoning Bylaw outlines the rules and regulations for uses in each zone in the City.
Select your project to learn about permits, bylaws, applying online and inspections.
The Alberta Safety Codes Council Barrier-Free Design Guide provides information about accessibility requirements under section 3.8 of the Alberta Building Code.
If your business is related to food handling or personal services.
If your business is related to alcohol sales and services.
Alberta Agriculture outlines the regulations and other rules for Alberta Approved Farmers' Markets.
Short-term rentals provide residential rental accommodation for 30 consecutive days or less.
Edmonton Economic Recovery Grant
The Edmonton Economic Recovery Grant is available to help Edmonton businesses recover from COVID-19. It provides local businesses and business organizations with flexible funding in order to relaunch and strengthen their business models.
Government of Alberta Business Funding
The Government of Alberta offers ideas for different funding sources to start a business, including angel investors and venture funding.
The Digital Economy Program provides small businesses with FREE 1-on-1 assistance for digital services and the skills you need to expand your business’s digital reach.
A non-profit organization that helps people navigate the steps towards their own business, including market research, human resource advice, income tax information, and other topics.
The Anderson Career Training Institute has experienced entrepreneurs ready to guide you through the business startup process.
Provides financing, mentoring and support tools to potential business owners between the ages of 18-39.
The Microbusiness Training Centre offers step-by-step small business training.
The Edmonton Made program works to boost the exposure of local entrepreneurs.
A division of Edmonton Economic Development Corporation that supports technology-enabled companies to start and grow.
Supports women to build successful businesses.
| Telephone | In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311 |
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| businesslicenceapplications@edmonton.ca |