Starting, Expanding, or Relocating Your Business

Whether you're taking your first step in business, expanding into a new space, or relocating within or to Westlock, we're here to help. Our Planning & Development team guides you through the process with clear, supportive advice at every stage.

What You Need to Know

Depending on your situation, different permits and approvals may apply:

Development Permit – Needed for new spaces or changes in how the space will be used.

Building Permit – Required for structural changes, renovations, or new construction.

Business License – Mandatory for all businesses operating in Westlock.

Site Planning – Expect to submit a site plan (parking, exterior layout) and floor plan (interior uses).

Operating from your Home? - You'll need approval for a Home Business. This includes a one-time Development Permit approval and an annual Business Licence.

Development Permit - Needed to ensure your new layout meets zoning rules (e.g., parking, traffic, activity impact).

Building Permit - Required if you're altering the structure—adding walls, capacity, or changing use.

Site Planning – Expect to submit a site plan (parking, exterior layout) and floor plan (interior uses).

New space = new permits: Development and Building Permits are needed if your new site differs in use or structure.

Minor relocations? Contact us to check if a simple address update or Business License renewal will do.

Mobile operators (e.g., food trucks) need a Hawker/Peddler License—no Development Permit required.

Businesses based outside Westlock need a Non-Resident Business License, even for on-site work.

Learn more about our business license process.

Before You Start: Book a Pre-Application Meeting

We strongly recommend booking a pre-application meeting early in your planning process. It’s the best way to identify:

Major considerations or red flags
Required permits and approvals
Application materials and drawing requirements
Land Use Bylaw or Alberta Building Code considerations

Bring your site plan or preliminary drawings to the meeting to help us provide accurate guidance.

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Application Process

Determine your needs using the sections above.
Download forms & checklists here, or visit the Town Office.
Prepare your drawings:
Refer to the checklist in our application packages for the exact requirements by project. At a minimum you should expect to provide:

Site plan (property layout, parking)
Floor plan (room use & dimensions)
Business expansions, depending on the size, may require full sets of drawings.

Apply
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.

We’ll Review & Respond
We will review your application. If anything is missing, we’ll let you know.
Receive Your Permit & Move In
Once approved, your permit must be posted on site. You’re then ready to begin any renovations required for your business.
Book your Inspections
If a Building Permit was required, you’ll need to book inspections at the specified stages in your Plans Review, to ensure that your project meets the Alberta Building Code and Alberta Safety Codes Act. Once your inspections have all been completed and passed, you’ll receive a Permit Services Report for your records.

Post your Business License & Open for Business

Processing Times & Help

Allow time for permit reviews—confirm timelines with staff, especially before launching or before construction starts.

If you’re not the property owner, ensure you have owner consent—either via application signature, in your lease, or authorization letter.

We’re Here for You

From brainstorming your start-up to launching a new location or updating your license, the Planning & Development team is your partner in success.