Why is a business license needed?
Bylaw 2339 states that any business (an activity or enterprise conducted for gain, benefit, advantage, or livelihood) within the city limits of Medicine Hat must have a valid Business License, renewed each year by the anniversary date of the original application.
Commercial/industrial Locations
If you operate more than one store, branch, or premises, each location must have a separate business license. Before you commit to a location for your business, check with The City of Medicine Hat Planning Department to determine if your type of business activity is permitted in a specific location. A copy of any certificates or letters of approval issued by Federal or Provincial authorities may be required.
Home Occupations
While home occupations use a dwelling unit or an accessory building for a business, the primary use of the dwelling unit or accessory building must be for residential purposes. A Development permit and Business License are required for operation of a home occupation. The Development Permit is renewed every three years and the Business License is due annually on the anniversary date of the original application. A copy of any certificates or letters of approval issued by Federal or Provincial authorities may be required.
Home Occupations shall not include the following:
- Auto body repairs and painting
- Automotive repairs
- Cabinet making
- Sheet metal work
- Welding work
- Upholstery work
- Vehicle or equipment storage or cleaning
Non-resident business licenses
A person or business that does not have a permanent base of operations in either a home or commercial location within Medicine Hat but are working in the city must pay a Non-Resident License Fee. A copy of any certificates or letters of approval issued by Federal or Provincial authorities may be required.
Canvassers/Peddlers/Transient Traders
Canvassers, peddlers and transient traders MUST bring a Medicine Hat Police Service criminal record check when they apply for a business license.
Applications for business licenses may be made at the Planning, Building and Development department between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (Monday – Friday).
For more information about business licenses please call 403.529.8374 or 403.529.8135.
New Business Licenses Issued:
February 2013
January 2013
December 2012
November 2012
October 2012
September 2012
August 2012
July 2012
June 2012
May 2012
April 2012
March 2012