Business Licences and Permits

You need a business licence to open or advertise a business in Dawson Creek. This helps to ensure that public health and safety regulations are being met in our community. Licences also help ensure that businesses are opening in the correct zone following our Zoning Bylaw. A business running without a licence may receive a fine from $100 a day up to $10,000 total. Please use our Report a Concern portal to report a business license bylaw issue.

Apply

The owner of the business or anyone who has signing authority should apply for the business licence. Please note, some businesses must provide copies of trade qualification certificates to receive their licence.

Inspections

We provide your application to a list of inspectors. Inspectors may schedule a visit to your business location or phone you for more information if needed. You will not receive your licence until inspections are complete and the License Inspector gives approval.

• Building Inspector
• Fire Department
• Health Inspector
• RCMP

Intercommunity licences

If you are planning to do business in surrounding areas, an Intercommunity Business Licence (ICBL) could save you money on licensing. If your business performs a service by moving from client to client, rather than having clients come to your business, you may be eligible for an ICBL. For an additional $130 purchase a ICBL license for these communities:

• Chetwynd
• Fort St. John
• Hudson's Hope
• Pouce Coupe
• Taylor
• Tumbler Ridge

Permits

Apply for a building or renovating permit if you are making changes to the occupancy or structure of your business. Apply for a sign permit if you are installing a sign.

Renew

You must renew your licence each year. You will receive an invoice at the end of each year. Renew your licence within 30 days of receiving the invoice or your account will increase with a monthly interest. Contact our business licence department by email or phone 250-784-3618 if you have any questions or do not receive your invoice.

Make a change

Contact our staff or complete our online form if:

• your business location is changing
• your business name is changing
• your contact information is changing
• you are selling or closing your business

If your business location or name is changing, you need a new business licence and inspectors may need to visit your new location.