Home Businesses | Town of Westlock

Whether you're freelancing, running a small shop, or offering services from your residence, Westlock welcomes home businesses that respect the character of our neighborhoods and promote local entrepreneurship.

Permits & Licensing Requirements

To operate a home-based business, you’ll need:

1. Development Permit
Required if clients visit your home. Once issued, it's valid as long as the business operates at the same address unless revoked. Moving locations or changing the business requires a new permit.

2. Business License
All home businesses and licenses must hold a valid Town-issued Business License. Licenses are renewed annually each January.

Home businesses must stay small-scale and neighborhood-friendly:

Use no more than 20% of your home's floor area (or 30 m²/323 ft²), whichever is less.
Storage must be inside the home or an accessory building (e.g. garage or shed).
No outdoor client activity, displays, or storage.
Only one commercial vehicle (max 1-ton) may be used for business.
Up to one non-resident employee or business partner may work at the home.
No more than three clients or customers onsite at a time.
Only one small fascia or window sign allowed, up to 0.4 m² (4.3 ft²).

Some businesses require a commercial or industrial location, including those that:

Change your home’s residential character or curb appeal
Generate noise, odours, smoke, or dust
Create visible or electronic interference
Use or store hazardous materials
Cause disruption to neighbors’ enjoyment or property values

In those cases, you’ll need to relocate to a suitable commercial or industrial zone.

How to Apply

Step 1 – Prepare Your Application
Download and complete the Home-Based Business Development Permit application package and Business License form.

Step 2 – Submit Your Application

Submit your application using one of the following methods:

· Online through our e-permitting portal

· In person at the Town Office (10003–106 Street, Westlock)

· By email to planning@westlock.ca

· By mail to the Town of Westlock, 10003–106 Street, Westlock, AB T7P 2K3

After your application is submitted, we’ll confirm your required permit fees. See the full fee schedule for current rates. Payment of the fees is required before we can review your permit. We offer a variety of payment options.

Step 5 – We’ll Review & Respond
We will review your application. If anything is missing, we’ll let you know. We aim to process permits quickly, though timelines can vary depending on volume and application completeness—so apply early if possible.

Step 6 - Receive Your Permit & Open for Business

Depending on your Land Use District, your approval may be subject to adjacent landowner notification and a 21-day appeal period applies. While you may start your business within this appeal period, it is at your own risk.

Need Help?

We’re here to support your entrepreneurial goals.