Home Based Business

Thinking of opening a home based business?


Did you know that all home based businesses and home offices require an approved development permit and business license prior to opening. There are 3 different levels of home based businesses according to the Land Use Bylaw 1804-13; not all residential properties are permitted to have all types of home based businesses, to find out what may be permitted or discretionary in your area, please visit our 'Zoning' page.

Home Office - 0 business visits per day


Home offices include a dedicated area located in a dwelling which has a phone and/or fax for a registered business entity but where there are no business clients, employees, products or deliveries.

  • Development Permit $75
Click here to view Section 8.7.1 of the Land Use Bylaw outlining the regulations of a Home Office.

Minor Home Based Business - 1 business visit per day


Minor home based businesses is a development consisting the use of an approved dwelling within a residential building by a resident of that dwelling for one or more businesses. Such businesses shall not require more than one business associated visit per day at that dwelling. The business use must be secondary to the residential use of the building and no aspects of the business operations shall be detectable from outside the property other than an approved sign. The dwelling shall not be used as a workplace for non-resident employees of the business. This use class does not include general retail sales.

  • Development Permit $75
  • Discretionary Notification Fee $75
Click here to view Section 8.7.2 of the Land Use Bylaw outlining the regulations of a Minor Home Based Business.

Major Home Based Business - +1 business visits per day


Major home based businesses is a development consisting of the use of an approved dwelling or accessory building by a resident of that dwelling for one or more business associated visits per day. The business use must be secondary to the residential use of the building and shall not change the residential character of the dwelling or accessory building with the exception of an approved sign. This use class includes bed and breakfast facilities but does not include general retail sales.

  • Development Permit $75
  • Discretionary Notification Fee $75
Click here to view Section 8.7.3 of the Land Use Bylaw outlining the regulations of a Major Home Based Business.