| Business
Licences
The
Development Services Division also oversees the business licensing. Here you will
find Forms and Regulations regarding operating a business in Invermere and access
to some of the frequently asked questions about starting and operating a business.
Business
License Application Form
Sidewalk
and Right-of-Way Policy (sidewalk café and sales tables)
Sidewalk
and Right-of-Way Occupancy Application (sidewalk café and sales tables)
Home
Base Business Application FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the process for getting a Business License?
Complete an
application form, (Home Based Businesses and Child Care Businesses must submit
a signed copy of the appropriate Application Form) and bring to: District
of Invermere 914 8th Avenue, Invermere, BC License staff will review
your application to make sure it is complete, and forward it to the appropriate
agencies for approvals. The approvals required will depend on the type of business
activity. Once all approvals are received and fees are collected, the Development
Services Division issues a Business License that can be picked up or mailed to
you. Why does the District of Invermere license businesses?
The
primary purpose of business licenses is to ensure that the District's municipal
land use regulations, building and fire codes and other community safety requirements
are followed by businesses. The business license program also collects important
statistical information about local business activities in order to understand
trends that impact municipal policy decisions. Revenue collected from business
licenses is used to pay for administration and enforcement of business licenses,
to fund the marketing and economic development initiative and to fund the Districts
annual operating grant to Tourism Invermere. Do I need a District of Invermere
Business License?
If you carry out business within the District of Invermere,
you are required to have a valid District of Invermere business license. How
do I obtain a Business License?
Business license application forms are
available from the District's Business Municipal Office or downloaded
online. How long does it take to get a Business License?
The
time required to process a license application depends on the approvals that are
needed. Typically, a license is issued within 7 to 10 working days, but may take
longer. Staff can tell you the status of your application. What are the
fees for a Business License?
Please refer to the Business License Amendment
Bylaw No. 1202 for the fees schedule. How long is a Business License valid?
Business licenses are issued for one year effective May 1 to April 30. How
do I renew my Business License?
If you have a business license, you will
automatically be sent a renewal notice in the mail in early March. License renewals
can be paid by mail or in person at municipal hall. License
fees are due by April 30. Can I operate a business from my home?
Yes, certain types of businesses may operate from home, with some restrictions.
The District's Zoning Bylaw restricts the type of business activities that are
allowed to operate in a residential neighbourhood (to minimize disturbances to
surrounding properties), limits the size of the area used for business purposes,
and regulates parking and storage impacts. Retail stores are specifically excluded
as a home based business. If I stop operating my business, do I have to
notify anyone?
Yes. You must contact the Business License Division in
writing to inform them that you are no longer operating; otherwise, you may continue
to receive renewal notices, and may be liable for fees. Do I require a special
permit for a commercial vehicle?
Yes. You must obtain a Commercial Decal
from the District for a vehicle used for business purposes. Bring your vehicle
registration forms with you when you apply for a decal. The decal fee is based
on the gross vehicle weight (GVW). What do I need to bring with me when
I apply for a license?
Bring your business license fee, your application
form, along with any relevant certificates or licenses required by the provincial
or federal governments to operate the business. | 