Licenses, permits, and regulations.

There’s a lot you need to know when it comes to obtaining business licenses and permits, and ensuring you’re adhering to government regulations that may apply to your business. Our team of experts are here to help you navigate the process.

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Municipal

Almost all businesses will require some kind of a municipal license or permit for every municipality they operate in. A good place to start is by visiting BizPaL. This online tool helps you find applicable municipal licenses and permits, as well as information on provincial and federal licenses, permits, and regulations.

Note that not all municipalities participate in BizPaL, and not all requirements are listed. Contact your local municipal government for more information. Due to the complex nature of some businesses, you may want to get advice from a lawyer to make sure you have everything covered.

Contact your local municipal government for information on how to apply, and to learn more about any additional bylaws or regulations that may be applicable to your operations

Provincial

Some businesses or industries may also require provincial licenses and permits. You can find more information here:

  • Alberta King’s Printer: this online catalogue offers the ability to search for any Alberta legislation (acts, regulations, codes) and legislative publications that may be relevant to your business. We suggest searching by keyword(s).
  • Industry-specific and other licensing and registration information is available through the Government of Alberta.

Federal

Some businesses or industries may have to adhere to federal regulations across Canada. You can find more information here:

  • Justice Laws website: This website allows you to search for any Federal legislation (acts, regulations, codes) and legislative publications that may be relevant to your business. We suggest searching by keyword(s).
  • The Government of Canada has information relating to some of the federal considerations your business may need to abide by, like federal permits, licensing, and regulations.

Industry-specific regulatory bodies

Some professions, occupations, and trades also have professional regulatory bodies with requirements, regulatory framework and certifications you will need to adhere to. Some examples are accounting, law, engineering, plumbing, transportation, and medicine. Learn more about regulatory bodies and trade and occupation regulations.

Resources to help you along the way

Small Business Resources

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Download our helpful guides packed full of resources, links and exercises. These guides will ensure you are on the right path with starting your business.

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From the blog

Regulations: The Not-So-Fun but Important Facts You Need to Know

You have enough on your plate when starting a business; add in the complexity of understanding compliance and licensing and it can be downright overwhelming. Just ask Saylish Haas, co-owner of The Next Act Pub, a restaurant in the culturally rich, Southside neighbourhood around Whyte Avenue in Edmonton.

Explore resources for other business areas

There are some tasks that almost every small business owner needs to complete before they get off the ground. These pages will educate you on some of those essentials to help get you on your way.

Financing Your Business

Creating a Business Plan

Legal Advice

Looking for personalized support?

Our team of in-house small business experts are here to help you navigate your unique entrepreneurial journey with free one-on-one advice. We can help you:

  • Understand and navigate the startup process including regulations and licensing
  • Explore strategies to successfully run and grow your existing business
  • Learn about your financing options, marketing and sales strategies, HR, and more
  • Get connected with the most relevant resources and support in the business community
  • Review your business plan