Business Licenses
Town of Canmore requires that any business operating within Canmore obtains a business license regardless of the scale or duration of its operation. For limited exemptions, please consult the
pdf
business registry bylaw
(200 KB)
. For professional exemptions, see below.
Depending on the type of business and your location, you may also need other municipal, provincial, federal and sector-specific authorizations. Follow the steps in BizPal for a comprehensive list.
Business Directory: If you are seeking a business to fulfill a project or other need, you have access to our business directory which features businesses who have given consent to be published.
Business License Options
License Application Process:
1. Choose from the options below and submit an application to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
2. Your application will be reviewed by our Business Registry Coordinator
2. Your application will be reviewed by our Business Registry Coordinator
3. If approved, your application will be processed and you will be sent instructions for payment
4. Once paid, your license will be in our queue to issue as a PDF via email
4. Once paid, your license will be in our queue to issue as a PDF via email
The average processing time for a complete application is up to 5 business days. Incomplete applications can significantly impact processing times.
This license if for any business based outside of Canmore, excluding the MD of Bighorn to conduct work within town.
Annual License - $600*
6-Month License - $300
3-Month License - $200
1-Month License - $150
3-Day License - $75
* The annual fee of a new license is pro-rated on July 1 and Oct. 1 in the first year.
Applications must include:
1. Application form (Fillable PDF). This document also includes the property list for property managers and film permit application for photographers and videographers.
Additional requirements:
· For electrical, gas, plumbing, and related permits, visit Alberta Safety Codes.
· Photographers and videographers shooting on Town property also require a film permit. Click here for details.
Annual License - $600*
6-Month License - $300
3-Month License - $200
1-Month License - $150
3-Day License - $75
* The annual fee of a new license is pro-rated on July 1 and Oct. 1 in the first year.
Applications must include:
1. Application form (Fillable PDF). This document also includes the property list for property managers and film permit application for photographers and videographers.
Additional requirements:
· For electrical, gas, plumbing, and related permits, visit Alberta Safety Codes.
· Photographers and videographers shooting on Town property also require a film permit. Click here for details.
This license is for businesses based within the MD of Bighorn, which includes Harvie Heights, Exshaw, Deadman's Flats and Lac Des Arcs, who wish to provide services within Canmore.
Annual License - $130
Micro-Business - $32.50*
Annual License - $130
Micro-Business - $32.50*
Application must include the following:
1. Application form (Fillable PDF)
2. Proof of residence: A photo of driver's license, copy or signed rent agreement, or utility/other bill with your name, address, and recent date.
* Micro-business status applies to Regional businesses that earn less than $30,000 in annual gross revenue (ie. Revenue before any expenses are paid). Supporting documentation may be requested.
· The annual fee of a new license is pro-rated on July 1 and Oct. 1 in the first year.
· Our local rates extend to you as per the current inter-municipal services agreement between Town of Canmore and the MD of Bighorn. This inter-municipal agreement is subject to change without notice. A Regional business does not extend beyond Canmore's town boundaries.
This license is for a business whose headquarters are based out of their primary residence in Canmore. For example, home-based business, independent contractors, mobile businesses, and e-commerce.
There home occupation business license is defined by two classes:
Home Occupation - Class 1: A small-scale business with no impact on the surrounding neighbourhood and would be undetectable from the street. Examples include home-office, e-commerce/online business, artists, and mobile businesses such as massage therapists providing in client-home services and hair stylists who rent a chair at a salon and other similar contract workers.
Home Occupation - Class 2: A small-scale business which may have some impact on the surrounding neighbourhood by way of noise, dust, customer visitation, deliveries, etc. Conditions can be put on Class-2 Home Occupations in order to minimize such impacts.
Business License Fees:
Annual License: $130
Micro-Business: $32.50*
Application must include the following:
1. pdf Application form (1.25 MB) (Fillable PDF)
2. Certificate of Incorporation, if applicable.
3. Proof of residence: If you are renting or otherwise do not appear on the title, submit a photo of your driver's license, or a copy of your signed rent agreement.
4. Town of Canmore Planning approval (if applicable): If you answer "yes" to any of the application's classification questions, you are required to verify your home occupation as a class-1 or class-2 home occupation via the Planning Department.
- Class-1? Submit a copy of Planning's decision to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
- Class-2? Submit a copy of your Development Permit and Schedule A to complete your business license application package.
There home occupation business license is defined by two classes:
Home Occupation - Class 1: A small-scale business with no impact on the surrounding neighbourhood and would be undetectable from the street. Examples include home-office, e-commerce/online business, artists, and mobile businesses such as massage therapists providing in client-home services and hair stylists who rent a chair at a salon and other similar contract workers.
Home Occupation - Class 2: A small-scale business which may have some impact on the surrounding neighbourhood by way of noise, dust, customer visitation, deliveries, etc. Conditions can be put on Class-2 Home Occupations in order to minimize such impacts.
Business License Fees:
Annual License: $130
Micro-Business: $32.50*
Application must include the following:
1. pdf Application form (1.25 MB) (Fillable PDF)
2. Certificate of Incorporation, if applicable.
3. Proof of residence: If you are renting or otherwise do not appear on the title, submit a photo of your driver's license, or a copy of your signed rent agreement.
4. Town of Canmore Planning approval (if applicable): If you answer "yes" to any of the application's classification questions, you are required to verify your home occupation as a class-1 or class-2 home occupation via the Planning Department.
- Class-1? Submit a copy of Planning's decision to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
- Class-2? Submit a copy of your Development Permit and Schedule A to complete your business license application package.
* Micro-business status applies to Canmore-based businesses that earn less than $30,000 in annual gross revenue (ie. Revenue before any expenses are paid). Supporting documentation may be requested.
The annual fee of a new license is pro-rated on July 1 and Oct. 1 in the first year.
This license is for a business based out of a commercial or industrial property in Canmore. For further information, please review
pdf
this information package
(163 KB)
.
Annual License: Starts at $130.
Refer to Schedule A of Bylaw 2015-02 for fees which generally depend on size of property, seats or rooms.
The annual fee of a new license is pro-rated on July 1 and Oct. 1 in the first year.
Application must include the following:
1. pdf Application form (1.37 MB) (Fillable PDF)
2. Certificate of Incorporation, if applicable
3. Lease agreement: If your business does not own the property, provide a copy of your lease agreement.
4. Town of Canmore Planning approval: The Planning Department determines if the nature of your business is permitted to operate from any property Canmore. This needs to be verified before you can obtain a business license. Please contact Planning.
- Planning Permit required? Submit a copy of your permit with your business license application. e.x. Development Permit and Schedule A.
- No Planning permit required? Submit a copy of Planning's communication to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Annual License: Starts at $130.
Refer to Schedule A of Bylaw 2015-02 for fees which generally depend on size of property, seats or rooms.
The annual fee of a new license is pro-rated on July 1 and Oct. 1 in the first year.
Application must include the following:
1. pdf Application form (1.37 MB) (Fillable PDF)
2. Certificate of Incorporation, if applicable
3. Lease agreement: If your business does not own the property, provide a copy of your lease agreement.
4. Town of Canmore Planning approval: The Planning Department determines if the nature of your business is permitted to operate from any property Canmore. This needs to be verified before you can obtain a business license. Please contact Planning.
- Planning Permit required? Submit a copy of your permit with your business license application. e.x. Development Permit and Schedule A.
- No Planning permit required? Submit a copy of Planning's communication to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Bed & Breakfast
Bed and Breakfast establishments are an ancillary commercial use operated by the resident of a single detached dwelling. Bed and Breakfasts establishments can provide accommodation for periods of 14 days or less with one meal provided on a daily basis to guests. For more information, click here.
Annual License: $130
Micro-Business: $32.50*
Application must include the following:
1. Home Occupation pdf Application form (1.25 MB) (Fillable PDF)
2. Development Permit & Schedule A: To inquire, contact Planning and select "Bed and Breakfast" as the subject of your inquiry
Annual License: $130
Micro-Business: $32.50*
Application must include the following:
1. Home Occupation pdf Application form (1.25 MB) (Fillable PDF)
2. Development Permit & Schedule A: To inquire, contact Planning and select "Bed and Breakfast" as the subject of your inquiry
* Micro-business status applies to Canmore-based businesses that earn less than $30,000 in annual gross revenue (ie. Revenue before any expenses are paid). Supporting documentation may be requested.
The annual fee of a new license is pro-rated on July 1 and Oct. 1 in the first year.
Other requirements outside of the jurisdiction of the Town of Canmore to take into consideration:
pdf
1. Collecting and remitting the Alberta Hotel Tax. Visits
(15.43 MB)
Alberta Treasury Board and Finance for information
2. Collecting and remitting GST. Visit Canada Revenue Agency for information
3. Inspection and cleaning of hot tubs, where applicable. Contact Environmental Public Health (Calgary Zone).
Special Event (Hosting an event on Town property)
An event organizer who is renting a Town of Canmore facility for the purpose of their event (ex. a wedding, swim meet, other), or who is being issued a Community Event Permit, qualify for a Special Event business license to cover all business activity related to the event, including their own and that of any service provider or vendor. Otherwise, the event organizer and all vendors, and service providers for are responsible for obtaining their own business license.
Daily fee: $75
Applications must include:
1. pdf Application form (fillable PDF) (961 KB)
Daily fee: $75
Applications must include:
1. pdf Application form (fillable PDF) (961 KB)
A vendor is defined as a business that wishes to:
1. Set up a push-cart, wagon, or other mobile unit; stall, booth, table or space for the sale or distribution of services or products. This may be in participation of an event or market, or as a vendor wishing to make use of private or public property. Food truck operators, please view details below.
2. Perform door-to-door sales or solicitation, whether as principal or agent, and who is not a wholesale or retail dealer in that merchandise or service.
Please read the pdf Vendor Guidelines (235 KB) for information. A vendor must obtain all necessary licenses and permits prior to operating in Canmore.
Temporary Annual License: $150
2-3 Days: $50
1-Day: $25
Application must include:
1. pdf Application form (1.30 MB) (Fillable PDF)
2. Temporary/Seasonal Development Permit, if operating on private property. Contact Planning and select "Temporary/Seasonal Development Permit" as the subject of your inquiry. Development Permits (DP) are issued at the discretion of the Planning Department, and inform if a Vendor license can be issued. Obtaining a DP may take several months; start the process as soon as possible.
If a business decides to return as a vendor again in the future, a Vendor business license, and Development Permit, if applicable, must be applied for anew.
For other business-related information, please see Other Documents & Permit.
1. Set up a push-cart, wagon, or other mobile unit; stall, booth, table or space for the sale or distribution of services or products. This may be in participation of an event or market, or as a vendor wishing to make use of private or public property. Food truck operators, please view details below.
2. Perform door-to-door sales or solicitation, whether as principal or agent, and who is not a wholesale or retail dealer in that merchandise or service.
Please read the pdf Vendor Guidelines (235 KB) for information. A vendor must obtain all necessary licenses and permits prior to operating in Canmore.
Temporary Annual License: $150
2-3 Days: $50
1-Day: $25
Application must include:
1. pdf Application form (1.30 MB) (Fillable PDF)
2. Temporary/Seasonal Development Permit, if operating on private property. Contact Planning and select "Temporary/Seasonal Development Permit" as the subject of your inquiry. Development Permits (DP) are issued at the discretion of the Planning Department, and inform if a Vendor license can be issued. Obtaining a DP may take several months; start the process as soon as possible.
If a business decides to return as a vendor again in the future, a Vendor business license, and Development Permit, if applicable, must be applied for anew.
For other business-related information, please see Other Documents & Permit.
Business License Exemptions
Provincial legislation and regulations allow for certain professions, trades, and businesses to be exempt from municipal licensing. Canmore-based organizations that fall under this exemption may voluntarily register for a business license. These businesses must only provide services within the scope of their professional designation to qualify for an exemption. To determine if you qualify for an exemption, consult with your designated professional association or governing Act.
Annual License: $50
Micro-Business: $32.50*
Application must include the following:
1. Application package appropriate to your business type. See the list above for options.
2. Letter of exemption from your professional association or regulatory body, or source the governing Act applicable to your business with your submission.
If your business holds a contract with the Town of Canmore and is not providing services elsewhere in town, please indicate this in your submission.
* Micro-business status applies to Canmore-based businesses that earn less than $30,000 in annual gross revenue (ie. Revenue before any expenses are paid). Supporting documentation may be requested.
This annual fee is not pro-rated.
Annual License: $50
Micro-Business: $32.50*
Application must include the following:
1. Application package appropriate to your business type. See the list above for options.
2. Letter of exemption from your professional association or regulatory body, or source the governing Act applicable to your business with your submission.
If your business holds a contract with the Town of Canmore and is not providing services elsewhere in town, please indicate this in your submission.
* Micro-business status applies to Canmore-based businesses that earn less than $30,000 in annual gross revenue (ie. Revenue before any expenses are paid). Supporting documentation may be requested.
This annual fee is not pro-rated.
Information for Vacation and Short-Term Rentals
Business License Requirements
A business license is required by any individual or business that owns and operates a tourist home, vacation rental or other short-term rental within Canmore. One business license covers all properties managed by that business or individual.
If the property owner has hired at third party to manage their properties, it is the third party company who requires the business license, and the property owner does not.
If the rental is part of a building's rental pool, the building's property management company has a business license, and no additional business license is required.
For more information on vacation rentals and tourist homes, click here.
2. Collecting and remitting GST. Visit Canada Revenue Agency for information
3. Inspection and cleaning of hot tubs, where applicable. Contact Environmental Public Health (Calgary Zone).
If the property owner has hired at third party to manage their properties, it is the third party company who requires the business license, and the property owner does not.
If the rental is part of a building's rental pool, the building's property management company has a business license, and no additional business license is required.
For more information on vacation rentals and tourist homes, click here.
Business license application must include:
1. Vacation rental property list (Fillable PDF)
2. Business license application based on the location of the property manager and not the rental property. Options include:
- Non-Resident if based outside of Canmore and the MD of Big Horn.
- Regional if based within the MD of Bighorn
- Home Occupation if based out of your primary residence in Canmore
- Resident Commercial if based out of a commercial office in Canmore
If you are a new property owner, you may be asked to provide a copy of your purchase agreement since your name may not yet appear on the title at the time of your application.
For information on zoning, Planning permits, and permissions, please click here.
Other requirements outside of the jurisdiction of the Town of Canmore:
2. Collecting and remitting GST. Visit Canada Revenue Agency for information
3. Inspection and cleaning of hot tubs, where applicable. Contact Environmental Public Health (Calgary Zone).
If you have an existing business license for your rental management company, and you have a new property to list on your account, please submit a
pdf
vacation rental property list
(64 KB)
to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Information for Food Trucks
License Options for Food Trucks
Town of Canmore does not currently permit food trucks to make use of Town public property (i.e. roadways, sideways, pathways, or trails), however, food truck owners may operate in Canmore in the following ways:
Food truck of an existing restaurant on own property: A Canmore-based restaurant owner may operate a food truck as an extension of their business on their own private commercial property. A Vendor business license and/or a Temporary/Seasonal Development Permit are not required to operate the food truck in this scenario.
As a vendor on private property: A food truck operator may enter into an agreement with a commercial property owner to operate their food truck, cart or vending kiosk from their commercial property. With that, the food truck operator is eligible to apply for a Vendor business license. A Temporary/Seasonal Development Permit from Planning will also be required. Please read the Vendor Business License section for details.
As a vendor at a special event: Food trucks may also directly contact event organizations to inquire about vending opportunities, such as the Canmore Mountain Market. A Vendor business license is required if the event is on private property and/or the organizer does not possess a Special Event business license to cover all business activities at their event.
To operate a food truck, other requirements exist such as a fire inspection of the vending unit by contacting This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and approvals from Alberta Health Services.
Food truck of an existing restaurant on own property: A Canmore-based restaurant owner may operate a food truck as an extension of their business on their own private commercial property. A Vendor business license and/or a Temporary/Seasonal Development Permit are not required to operate the food truck in this scenario.
As a vendor on private property: A food truck operator may enter into an agreement with a commercial property owner to operate their food truck, cart or vending kiosk from their commercial property. With that, the food truck operator is eligible to apply for a Vendor business license. A Temporary/Seasonal Development Permit from Planning will also be required. Please read the Vendor Business License section for details.
As a vendor at a special event: Food trucks may also directly contact event organizations to inquire about vending opportunities, such as the Canmore Mountain Market. A Vendor business license is required if the event is on private property and/or the organizer does not possess a Special Event business license to cover all business activities at their event.
To operate a food truck, other requirements exist such as a fire inspection of the vending unit by contacting This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and approvals from Alberta Health Services.
Busking in Canmore
Business License for Buskers
Click here for more information.
How to add a business location to the approved busking locations map?
Click here for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of a business license?
Town of Canmore's business license program not only benefits businesses, it helps strengthen and diversify Canmore's economy. A thriving economy ensures that our beautiful mountain town continues to be a vibrant and enriching place to live, work and play.
- Business registry data helps track macro trends and identify sectors that may require support
- License fees fund the Economic Development department’s initiatives, programs, and projects
- Businesses can opt-in for a complimentary listing on the Town of Canmore’s business directory
- Provides a municipal license which may be required if applying for municipal, provincial, or federal programs
- The business license process provides a fair environment for all businesses operating within the Town of Canmore
- The business registry helps track our community’s economic development and acts as a resource for business planning and economic diversification
- The business license process allows the Town of Canmore to work closely with the Government of Alberta to track and regulate operators that pose a risk to residents
- When business registration is combined with the development process, a licensed business ensures that building codes have been adhered to and zoning and other restrictions have been enforced
- Canmore-based businesses may be eligible for a Canmore resident parking permit
How do I pay for my annual renewal?
As an annual license holder, you will receive an invoice within one month prior to your license expiry. For those with a valid email address on file, the invoice will be sent by email. Otherwise, the invoice will be sent by regular mail.
To declare micro-business status, you must submit your pdf declaration (1.38 MB) and wait for approval before making payment. If approved, we would adjust your fee and send you payment options anew.
Payment options:
1. Virtual Town Hall: Search by your business license number. Payment can be made using VISA, MasterCard and participating debit cards.
2. Online banking: Search "Canmore" when adding a new payee and select "Canmore (Town) Business Licence". This name may vary slightly between banks. Refer to your invoice or payment email for you Customer ID when prompted for your account number. Note: We do not accept INTERAC e-transfer.
3. Over the phone: Call 403-678-1500 ext. 6 to pay using VISA or MasterCard.
4. In person: Visit the Civic Centre's front desk located at 902-7th Avenue. They are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
5. By Cheque: Deliver a cheque to the Civic Centre's drop-box located to the right of its main doors or send by mail to ATTN: Town of Canmore Finance / Business Registry, 902-7th Avenue, Canmore AB T1W 3K1.
Pre-Authorized Payment Plan: Simplify your annual license renewal with our pre-authorized payment plan. Complete pdf this form (196 KB) and submit with a void cheque to Accounts Receivables at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
If you are a micro-business on the pre-authorized payment plan, submit your pdf declaration (1.38 MB) for the upcoming year by Dec. 12 to ensure that your renewal fee is adjusted before your payment comes out on Dec. 31.
To declare micro-business status, you must submit your pdf declaration (1.38 MB) and wait for approval before making payment. If approved, we would adjust your fee and send you payment options anew.
Payment options:
1. Virtual Town Hall: Search by your business license number. Payment can be made using VISA, MasterCard and participating debit cards.
2. Online banking: Search "Canmore" when adding a new payee and select "Canmore (Town) Business Licence". This name may vary slightly between banks. Refer to your invoice or payment email for you Customer ID when prompted for your account number. Note: We do not accept INTERAC e-transfer.
3. Over the phone: Call 403-678-1500 ext. 6 to pay using VISA or MasterCard.
4. In person: Visit the Civic Centre's front desk located at 902-7th Avenue. They are open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
5. By Cheque: Deliver a cheque to the Civic Centre's drop-box located to the right of its main doors or send by mail to ATTN: Town of Canmore Finance / Business Registry, 902-7th Avenue, Canmore AB T1W 3K1.
Pre-Authorized Payment Plan: Simplify your annual license renewal with our pre-authorized payment plan. Complete pdf this form (196 KB) and submit with a void cheque to Accounts Receivables at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
If you are a micro-business on the pre-authorized payment plan, submit your pdf declaration (1.38 MB) for the upcoming year by Dec. 12 to ensure that your renewal fee is adjusted before your payment comes out on Dec. 31.
Canmore-based businesses and Regional license holders who generate less than $30,000 in annual gross revenue (i.e. revenue before any expenses are paid) may declare themselves as a micro-business. If approved, their license fee is reduced for $32.50 for the year. Supporting documentation may be requested.
When and how can I declare? When you first apply for an annual license (it is part of the application form) and upon renewal of your license. If declaring at the time of renewal, refer to page 2 of your invoice or complete this fillable pdf micro-business declaration (1.38 MB) and submit it to the Business Registry to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by mail to Business Registry 902-7th Avenue, Canmore, AB T1W 3K1.
Wait for a response before paying your license fee. The Business Registry Coordinator will review your declaration, and if approved, you will be sent payment options for your reduced fee.
Annual Renewal Pre-Authorized Payment Plan? Submit your declaration for the upcoming year by Dec. 12 to ensure that your renewal fee is adjusted before your pre-authorized payment comes out on Dec. 30.
When and how can I declare? When you first apply for an annual license (it is part of the application form) and upon renewal of your license. If declaring at the time of renewal, refer to page 2 of your invoice or complete this fillable pdf micro-business declaration (1.38 MB) and submit it to the Business Registry to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by mail to Business Registry 902-7th Avenue, Canmore, AB T1W 3K1.
Wait for a response before paying your license fee. The Business Registry Coordinator will review your declaration, and if approved, you will be sent payment options for your reduced fee.
Annual Renewal Pre-Authorized Payment Plan? Submit your declaration for the upcoming year by Dec. 12 to ensure that your renewal fee is adjusted before your pre-authorized payment comes out on Dec. 30.
How do I update my contact details or services offered?
If you wish to make a change to your business’s contact information, mailing address, contact persons, or types of services offered, please complete the
pdf
change form
(191 KB)
and submit it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by mail to Business Registry, 902 7th Avenue, Canmore, AB, T1W 3K1. All changes must be submitted by the business owner or designated authorized contact.
My business is moving. What do I do?
Submit a change form and proof of residence* or a copy of your commercial lease agreement. This proof is only required if you are not on title as the owner of the property. This can be submitted to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by mail to by mail to Business Registry, 902 7th Avenue, Canmore, AB, T1W 3K1.
* Proof of residence may be a photo of a driver's license or a copy of your rent agreement (address and signature pages only).
Important:
If you are moving to a new location which impacts your business license type (ex. moving from a residential to a commercial property, or from Canmore to out-of-town), you will need to apply for a new business license. See options above, or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and the Business Registry Coordinator can guide you.
* Proof of residence may be a photo of a driver's license or a copy of your rent agreement (address and signature pages only).
Important:
If you are moving to a new location which impacts your business license type (ex. moving from a residential to a commercial property, or from Canmore to out-of-town), you will need to apply for a new business license. See options above, or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and the Business Registry Coordinator can guide you.
My business has changed ownership. What do I do?
Previous owner? Submit a license cancellation notice by mail or email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Business license fees are non-refundable and non-transferrable as per Bylaw 2015-02.
New owner? Apply for a business license of your own. See the "Business Licenses" section above for the license that best suits your business. Proof of business transfer or business sale agreement must also be submitted as part of the application.
New owner? Apply for a business license of your own. See the "Business Licenses" section above for the license that best suits your business. Proof of business transfer or business sale agreement must also be submitted as part of the application.
My business is closing. What do I do?
Permanent Closure? The business owner must submit a notice including the business name and/or license number and date of closure to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or by mail to Business Registry, 902 7th Avenue, Canmore, AB, T1W 3K1. We will then cancel your business license renewal.
Temporary closure? If you are putting a pause on your operation in Canmore, notify us via email or mail and we will cancel your license renewal. When you decide to resume operations, we can reactivate your license. A new application form may be required to verify that all information is up to date and that the appropriate business license is activated.
Please note that all business license fees are non-refundable as per Bylaw 2015-02.
Temporary closure? If you are putting a pause on your operation in Canmore, notify us via email or mail and we will cancel your license renewal. When you decide to resume operations, we can reactivate your license. A new application form may be required to verify that all information is up to date and that the appropriate business license is activated.
Please note that all business license fees are non-refundable as per Bylaw 2015-02.
How do I reactivate a cancelled license?
If your business license has been cancelled and you wish to resume operations, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. We would work with you to reactivate or create you a new license. A new application form may be required to verify that all information is up to date and that the appropriate business license is activated.
If your vehicle is registered to your business based in Canmore, and you have a valid business license, you qualify for a resident parking permit. Please click here for details and to apply. Tradespeople whose vehicles are not registered in Canmore, but require on-street parking in the residential-only parking zone can be assigned a guest parking permit by the resident for whom they are performing work, should off-street parking such as their private driveway not be available.
Other Documents & Permits
Below is information on supporting documentation and other helpful resources for business owners.
Planning & Development Permits
A Development Permit issued by Town of Canmore Planning may be required by a business who owns or rents a property previously occupied by a business of a different industry. A Development Permit is required vendors or food trucks on private property; by Home Occupation Class-2 businesses including Bed and Breakfasts, and are required for most new construction, or any time there is a change in the way land is used or the intensity of the use has changed. The type of Development Permit will depend on the situation and be determined by Planning. For more information and to inquire, click here
If doing renovations, please visit the Planning Department online for more information on building and development permits. Construction noise is permitted between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and is prohibited Sundays and holidays. All construction occurring on Sundays and holidays requires written approval by the Town of Canmore. A Request for Permission to Work form can be obtained at the Civic Centre or by clicking here. (Source: Bylaw Services’ Noise & Nuisance Control webpage)
If doing renovations, please visit the Planning Department online for more information on building and development permits. Construction noise is permitted between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and is prohibited Sundays and holidays. All construction occurring on Sundays and holidays requires written approval by the Town of Canmore. A Request for Permission to Work form can be obtained at the Civic Centre or by clicking here. (Source: Bylaw Services’ Noise & Nuisance Control webpage)
Signage Permit & Regulations
Prior to ordering any signs, refer to the Sign Regulations and complete the Development Permit Application available online. For inquiries, contact Planning.
Permits for Photographers and Filmmakers
Are you a photographer or filmmaker? If you are shooting on Town property, a film permit is required. Please submit your business license application, certificate of insurance, and film permit application as one package to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please click here for details and to apply.
If you are strictly shooting on private property, such as at a hotel, restaurant or in a person's home, you are only required to obtain a business license. See the "Business Licenses" section for the option that best suits your operation.
If you are strictly shooting on private property, such as at a hotel, restaurant or in a person's home, you are only required to obtain a business license. See the "Business Licenses" section for the option that best suits your operation.
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, click here.
Restaurants – Grease Trap/Interceptor Schedule
All restaurants are required to have a grease trap (interceptor) and submit an annual maintenance schedule to Public Works upon request. Contact Public Works at 403.678.1580 for more information.
Automotive Repair and Dealership Approvals
If you are opening an automotive repair shop or dealership you must contact AMVIC and get approval. Contact: 877.979.8100
Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC)
For gaming, liquor, and cannabis permits and information, please contact the AGLC.
Trade Name Registration
Proof of registering your business name/trade name with the Government of Alberta is not required to obtain a Canmore business license. However, if you do wish to register your business or trade name, fill out the form referred to in Step 3 at this link, and submit the form to the Canmore Registry (Government of Alberta).
Electrical, Gas and Plumbing
For electrical, gas, plumbing, and related permits, visit Alberta Safety Codes.
Other Industry Specific Permits
Depending on the type of business and your location, you may also need other municipal, provincial, federal and sector-specific authorizations. Follow the steps in BizPal for a comprehensive list.
Other Essential Information
Business License Bylaw Non-Compliance
Business owners are responsible for operating in compliance with the Business Registry Bylaw and other related bylaws. Visit this link for a list of commonly requested bylaws. Any person who contravenes the provisions of the
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business registry bylaw
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shall be liable for a penalty of up to $1,000 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 Business Directory to find businesses that have given consent to be listed. You may also contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to inquire if a business is licensed to operate within the Town of Canmore. The business name must be provided at the time of inquiry
Support & Resources for Businesses
New business? Consider applying for SMARTstart, a program for entrepreneurs within the first three years of operation. This program has an annual intake process.
Searching for commercial property? Visit this link to search for available properties for lease or sale.
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.
Find Tender Opportunities: Tender opportunities with the Town of Canmore are listed online, and you can find a comprehensive list of opportunities available in Alberta via Alberta Purchasing Connection.
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
