Bylaws related to businesses

Business and economy

Bylaws related to businesses

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The bylaw ensures:

  • Public safety
  • Consumer protection
  • Service quality

To operate a legal business in Calgary, you must have a licence.

For compliments or complaints regarding businesses in Calgary, call 311, use the app or go to Calgary.ca/311​

For more information about business licensing and applications, visit:

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Exceptions

Not all businesses require a licence. It might not fall under one of the licensing bylaws if:

  • A business requires inspections/permits by other authorities.
    • Consider a bed and breakfast as an example. It requires an inspection from Alberta Health Services. It also requires Planning Department development permits. These ensure set standards for this activity.
  • A business falls under a higher regulation or self-governing body. For example:
    • Day Care providers - Regulated by Calgary Family & Child Services.
    • Dentists - Regulated by the Alberta Dental Association & College. Governed by the Health Professions Act.
    • Medical Doctors - Governed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta.

Other permits

The City may Require other permits ‘in addition’ to a business licence. The completion of a fire inspection for instance. It depends on the type of business.

Other bylaws and regulations

The City has extra bylaws/regulations for specific types of businesses:

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We do regular research with businesses to better understand the outlook and viewpoint of the business community. If you are a business owner, leader or manager, join our online business research panel, Business Perspectives.

Join the Business Perspectives Panel