Door-to-door Businesses

In Medicine Hat, people involved in door-to-door sales are categorized as canvassers or pedlars. Door to door activities are often used for:

  • Direct sales of products
  • Fundraising for non-profits
  • Marketing or promotion
  • Gathering information

Bylaw #2339 has policies which regulate businesses and industries within Medicine Hat:

Bylaw 2339

Authorization
Get a Direct Seller's License

It is the company's responsibility to obtain the Government of Alberta Direct Seller's License. To apply, visit Service Alberta or phone 310-0000.

Apply for a Police Information Check

Visit Medicine Hat Police Service or phone 403-502-8916.

Apply for a Business License

When you have your Police Information Check and Direct Seller's License, you can apply for a City Business License.

Apply online

Before starting door-to-door activities, canvassers and pedlars must come to Planning & Development Services (in City Hall) to obtain photo ID cards.

Fees vary depending on whether you are a Medicine Hat resident. See list of fees below:

Fees and Charges

When doing door-to-door activities
  • You must carry the ID card which was issued to you
  • Only engage in sales between 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., and not on statutory holidays
  • Always be respectful

Charities and non-profits

A City Business License is not required if door-to-door activities do not involve sales of any kind. Examples include:

  • Fundraising for registered non-profits
  • Marketing or promotion not involving sales
  • Information gathering by governments, law enforcement, fire services, etc.

Alberta Rules and Regulations