Business License

How to Apply for a Business License

If you are planning to operate a business in the Town of Morinville you will need to apply for a business license.  The steps below will help guide you through the application process.

In short, if the business will operate within the Town, land use approval is required as the first step.  Then a business license application may be processed.  Please see below for more information.

STEP 1:  Select a Location and Confirm Land Use Districting (zoning)

Land Use Districting - Prior to applying for a business license, you must confirm that your desired business location conforms to the business types allowed in that area (Land Use Bylaw).  Allowable business types vary in different areas of Morinville (Land Use Bylaw Map), and this can affect the type of business that you are allowed to operate.  For information on Land Use Districting requirements visit the Planning and Development Department or call
780-939-4361.

A note on home occupations (home-based businesses):  These are generally allowed in all residential areas.  There are two distinct types of home occupations - Minor and Major - with specific regulations pertaining to these types of land use.  All Home Occupations are required to have valid Development Permits (for more information, please see development permits below).  An application for a Home Occupation typically requires:

  • Development Permit Application Form
  • Home Occupation Questionnaire
  • Payment of applicable fees

Development Permit – Upon determination that your business conforms to the Land Use Bylaw districting, you may also require a Development Permit if your use has not been previously approved for that location.  This is also applicable when changing from one use type to another, as defined in the Land Use Bylaw.  NOTE - Discretionary Use proposals are considered by the Municipal Planning Commission at their meetings held on the first (1st) Wednesday of each month.

STEP 2: Complete a Business Application Form

A complete Business License Application consists of:  

  • A fully completed and signed Business Licence Application Form;
  • Confirmation of Land Use Districting (see Step 1); 
  • Payment of the Application Fee; and,
  • Applicable Supporting Documents.  Depending on the type of business, these may include:
    • Professional certificates (if applicable) 
    • Proof of incorporation (if applicable) 
    • Health inspection certificate (if applicable)

STEP 3: Municipal Application Processing

Business license applications take approximately ten working days to process, as they must be reviewed and approved by multiple Town departments before a business license may be issued.

Approval is also required when the use of a business premise is changed, a property is developed, or building additions are undertaken, in order to ensure compliance with Bylaws and regulations.

The Provincial and Federal governments may also have additional requirements that must be met before a business can legally operate in the Town.

Applications missing information or requiring clarification may take longer to process.  Once your application is approved, your business license will be mailed to you.

Business Start-Up Links

The following agencies and services are available to assist you with your business start-up needs:

Changes to Your Business License

If you are moving your business location or are a new owner, please contact the Town of Morinville at 780-939-4361.