Once submitted, our team will review your application and will confirm any required approvals or inspections. Processing usually takes 5-7 business days, depending on completeness of applications and required inspections.
Step 5: Receive your business licence
Once approved, you'll receive your business licence certificate to be displayed at your operating location or to carry with your while operating.
What could delay my application?
Some common reasons for delay are listed here. This list is not all-inclusive.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, all businesses operating in Cochrane require a licence, including home-based businesses, medical operations, non-profits and temporary businesses.
If your business operates within Cochrane's borders, you still need a business licence as a non-resident business.
If you operate a commercial or customer-facing location, a fire inspection is required.
Most home-based businesses do not require an inspection. However, if you operate a business with specific risks or regulatory requirements or if you operate a short-term rental, you will require an inspection.
No, you must wait to receive your business licence before beginning operations.
If you select the wrong business type in the application form, don't fret! Our business licence team will review your application and confirm the correct category with you.
The permits required to operate your business depends on your business type. Some businesses require additional municipal, provincial or federal approvals to operate. Requirements vary depending on the products or services you provide.
Use BizPal to identify permits and licences that may apply to your business.
If you operate a mobile business that is participating in an event in Cochrane, you must apply for an Event Licence. You must still meet any requirements related to your business operations, such as Alberta Health Services approvals or fire inspections.
You can contact us if:
Your business doesn't fit the examples provided on our website
You're unsure if your business can operate from a proposed location
Your application is stuck and you don't know why
Unsure of what applies to your business? We're here to help!
