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Starting and Operating a Business

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Learn more about Edmonton's Business Licence Bylaw and other regulations that business owners need to know.

Please refer to COVID-19 Support for Edmonton Businesses for information and resources available to you during this difficult time.

Every person or company that conducts business in Edmonton is required to have a business licence. This is regulated by the City of Edmonton's Business Licence Bylaw 13138. Some professions are exempt because these are regulated by other legislation. 

A business licence is a good investment because it shows your customers that you follow the City's rules and regulations. It also indicates that your business complies with fire, health, and building regulations. 

If your business operates at multiple locations, each location requires its own business licence.

Interested to know more about recently issued business licences within the City of Edmonton? Explore this monthly snapshot.

Thinking of Opening a Business?

Tools to find a business location and classification information to help you start your business in Edmonton.

Register Your Business

Do you need to register your business or corporation name? Register through Service Alberta. 

Find a Location

Edmonton Maps can help you find a location that is zoned for your business activity. Once you have found a location, talk to City staff at the Edmonton Service Centre to determine whether you can operate your business at this location.

If your activity is a “Permitted Use” in the Zoning Bylaw, it doesn’t mean that your business licence application will automatically be approved. City staff will still have to review the application to ensure that it meets all of the City’s rules and regulations.  

It is recommended that you speak with City staff about your potential business location so you may fully understand the regulations before you sign a lease. 

Business Classifications

Use the Business Licence classifications and Zoning Bylaw Use Classes as a guide to understand the specific rules and regulations for your business by referring to the Business Licence Bylaw and Section 7 of the Zoning Bylaw for more information.

City staff will determine the categories for your business in order to issue you the appropriate business licence. To search through the various categories visit Business Licence classifications.

Opening a restaurant or cafe? Speak to staff at the Edmonton Service Centre to understand all the requirements. 

Related Permits

If you’re building a new space or renovating an existing space, you will require a development permit and a building permit.

If you're looking to install or replace a sign on or off-premises, you may require a permanent sign.

If you're looking to place a relocatable or removable sign on or off-premises, you will require a temporary sign.

Apply for a Business Licence

Steps and information on applying for a City of Edmonton Business Licence.

Update Your Existing Business Licence

How to update information found in your existing business licence.

Renew Your Business Licence

Process and information about renewing your existing business licence.

Home-Based Business

Rules and requirements for operating a home-based business in the City.

One-on-One Support for Your Small Business

Are you a small business owner? Is this your first or second time opening a business? Then make an appointment for one-on-one support to:

  • Understand the business licence, building permit and development permit requirements prior to starting the process
  • Explore location options for your business

To book your Open Window for one-on-one support, please contact smallbusiness@edmonton.ca

Resource Guide

Overview of the services provided by the Public Safety Compliance Team

What is PSCT?

The Public Safety Compliance Team (PSCT) is a multi-agency team designed to coordinate the efforts of the municipal and provincial agencies involved in the licensing, regulation and enforcement of licensed business establishments. 

The PSCT is committed to working with businesses for the betterment of the hospitality industry in Edmonton.

Email the team for information, advice, education, or any concerns.  

Resources

Additional resources to help make your business in Edmonton a success.

City of Edmonton Business Resources
Edmonton Zoning Bylaw

The Zoning Bylaw outlines the rules and regulations for uses in each zone in the City.

Zoning Bylaw Matrix

The Zoning Bylaw Matrix outlines the types of uses that are permitted, discretionary and prohibited in each zone in the City.

Funding
Funding a Business

The Government of Alberta offers ideas for different funding sources to start a business, including angel investors and venture funding.  

TEC Edmonton

A joint venture between the University of Alberta and the Edmonton Economic Development Corporation (EEDC). They provide funding, mentoring and other services to help build successful technology-based companies.

Mentoring and Training
Anderson Career Training Institute

The Anderson Career Training Institute has experienced entrepreneurs ready to guide you through the business startup process.

Futurpreneur Canada

Provides financing, mentoring and support tools to potential business owners between the ages of 18-39.

Microbusiness Training Centre

The Microbusiness Training Centre offers step-by-step small business training.

Networking
Business Link

The Business Link network offers a range of information sessions and other worthwhile services.

Edmonton Made

The Edmonton Made program works to boost the exposure of local entrepreneurs.

Startup Edmonton

Connects high-tech entrepreneurs with programs, workshops, community events and mentorship.

Regulations and Standards
Alberta Approved Farmers' Markets

Alberta Agriculture outlines the regulations and other rules for Alberta Approved Farmers' Markets.

Food Facilities Information

The Alberta Health Services Food Facilities Information includes provincial checklists and other guidelines.

Barrier-Free Design Guide

The Alberta Safety Codes Council Barrier-Free Design Guide provides information about accessibility requirements under section 3.8 of the Alberta Building Code.

Business Startup Checklist

The Government of Canada's Business Startup Checklist includes links to applicable federal and provincial regulatory agencies.

Related Documents

Control Plans: Alcohol Sales/Minors Prohibited

For use in conjunction with new or renewal application(s) for a Business Licence with the category of Alcohol Sales/Minors Prohibited.

Control Plans: Body Rub Centre

For use in conjunction with new or renewal application(s) for a Business Licence with the category of Body Rub Centre.

Business Licence Cancellation Form

Form used to cancel a business licence.

For More Information

Edmonton Service Centre - Closed Until Further Notice

2nd Floor, 10111 104 Avenue NW
Edmonton, AB  T5J 0J4

Telephone In Edmonton: 311
Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311
Email businesslicenceapplications@edmonton.ca

 

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