Grande Prairie businesses are reminded to apply for a business licence before the grace period ends on December 1 to avoid penalties.

A six-month grace period has been in effect since May 1, eliminating penalties for businesses operating without a business licence to allow businesses time to adjust to the new requirements, application processes, and guidelines.

All businesses are required to have a business licence, except when exempt due to provincial legislation. A list of exemptions is available online.

After December 1, businesses without a licence may be fined up to $500 per day they are in operation.

There is no cost to apply for a business licence for businesses operating within the city’s commercial and industrial areas.

Businesses can apply online for business licences by visiting cityofgp.com/businesslicensing, selecting the business type that closely matches their operations (Commercial Based Business, Home-Based Business, or Non-Resident Business) and clicking “Apply Now.”

Choosing the correct business type for their operations is essential, as each business type has slightly different application requirements.

Background

A revised business licence bylaw came into effect on May 1, 2021 after a robust consultation with local business associations and business owners. The changes were made to the bylaw to better support economic development, reduce fees, and streamline the application process.

For more detailed information about the changes to the business license bylaw, fees, and business categories or to apply for your business license, visit cityofgp.com/businesslicensing.