Loading, about as long as a coffee at the Lion’s Head.
Loading, about as long as a coffee at the Lion’s Head.
Required for any business operating in Castlegar, including home-based ones. Most applications are straightforward, and Development Services can quote a fee over the phone before you fill anything out.
If your business operates in Castlegar, you need a current business licence under Bylaw 1337. This includes new businesses, businesses relocating to Castlegar, existing businesses adding a new location, and home-based operations. Even one-person consulting work run from a home office typically requires one.
The most common question Development Services hears is “do I really need one for what I’m doing?” The answer is almost always yes, and there’s no shame in asking. Call before you apply, you’ll get a fast read on whether your activity needs a municipal licence, the inter-community licence, or both.
Good to know
Working across multiple West Kootenay towns?
The City handles business licence applications through Development Services. The application asks for your business name, owner details, business address, type of activity, and any applicable trade licences or insurance.
The fillable Business Licence Application is available as a PDF (linked below) along with a Business Licence Guide that walks through the process. For specific questions or unusual situations, contact Development Services at devserv@castlegar.ca or 250-365-8964.
Fees vary by business type. Rather than publish a stale schedule, the City quotes the current municipal fee over the phone before you apply, no application required to ask. The West Kootenay Inter-Community Business Licence is a separate $100, on top of any municipal fee.
Business licences are renewed annually. The City mails renewal invoices at the end of December, with payment due by January 31.
Provincial short-term rental rules took effect May 1, 2024. The City of Castlegar has aligned its bylaws with the provincial framework, except for the principal residency requirement. If you operate a short-term rental, contact Development Services to confirm your obligations.
Castlegar's Zoning Bylaw (Bylaw 1428) regulates what kinds of business activity are allowed in residential zones. Most quiet home offices fit comfortably. A business that involves customer foot traffic, storage, employees coming to the home, or signage may need additional approvals. Confirm with Development Services before you set up.
Beyond the licence itself, the City supports business development through several programs:
Business Licence Application (PDF)
Fillable PDF. Submit to City Hall when complete.
Business Licence Guide (PDF)
Walks through who needs one, fees, and steps.
Bylaw 1337 (Business Licencing)
The full Business Licencing Bylaw.
Bylaw 1246 (Inter-Community Licence)
For businesses working across multiple BC towns.
BC Bid (City tenders)
Where Castlegar posts competitive tenders.
Still need help?
Faster than calling for non-urgent issues. We respond within one business day.