If you are planning to operate, or already operate a business in Fort Nelson or in the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality, you require a business licence.
Business Licence Renewal
- Licences must be renewed annually by paying the applicable licence fee prior to January 1 each year. Renewal invoices are automatically sent out in the beginning of December.
- Failure to renew will require the business owner to submit a new licence application.
- Failure to renew and continued operation of a business may result in a fine.
Changing an Existing Licence
The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality must be notified in the event of an address change, name change, ownership change or if a business has ceased to operate.
Starting a Business
STEP 1 - SELECT A LOCATION |
Before applying for a licence, you will need to select a location for your business. Zoning Bylaw regulations vary in different areas and can affect the type of business you are permitted to operate. Before confirming a lease or purchase agreement, ensure the location is suitable. Please note that Major Home-Based Business, Minor Home-Based Business and Bed and Breakfast regulations are contained in Zoning Bylaw section 3. If you are unsure if your business complies with regulations, feel free to contact us for clarification. |
STEP 2 - YOUR BUSINESS TYPE |
Commercial and Industrial When applying for a business licence in commercial or industrial areas, please consider the following:
Home Based Business Regulations The NRRM's Zoning Bylaw restricts certain types of business activities from taking place in residential neighbourhoods to prevent disturbances to surrounding properties. There are limitations on home business types and sizes and regulations on hours, parking, and storage. For more information on home based businesses: |
STEP 3 - APPLY FOR A BUSINESS LICENCE |
A valid NRRM business licence is required to conduct business within the Municipality. If you are planning to operate more than one business type or at more than one location, a separate licence for each business is required. NRRM business licences expire on December 31 of each year and must be renewed before the expiration date for a business to continue operating. If a licence expires, the business owner must reapply. |
STEP 4 - APPLICATION PROCESS |
Operating without a business licence may result in a fine.
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Benefits of a Business Licence
- Free advertising in the Chamber of Commerce Business Directory.
- Allows NRRM Economic Development staff to be aware of your business when promoting Fort Nelson- and NRRM-based services to investors and industry.
- Tells your customers that you are a trustworthy local business in compliance with local regulations.