City of Medicine Hat
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Plan ahead for a great start
2-3 weeks before you intend to open your commercial or industrial based business, it is strongly recommended that you discuss your plans with staff at Planning & Development Services.
Before making a long-term commitment to a business space, it is important to know if you will be allowed to operate at your desired location, the safety concerns that must be addressed, and the permits/approvals you will need. Skipping over steps or making assumptions could be costly and/or may delay the opening of your business.
Mobile businesses are still required to have a base location, whether it be commercial-based or home-based.
If you hold a Provincial License with the Province of Alberta you still must have a business license from the City of Medicine Hat in order to conduct your business legally inside the corporate limits of Medicine Hat.
Understanding the six steps below will help you to give your business have a superb start. Remember, we are here to help! Contact:
Planning & Development Services
Second floor, City Hall
580 1st Street SE
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 8E6
Ph. 403.529.8374
pbe@medicinehat.ca
What is a land use approval?
Occupancy: The use, or intended use of a space, as defined by the Alberta Building Code.
Occupant load: The number of people who may occupy a space, calculated as both Design Occupant Load and Operational Occupant Load, outlined in the Alberta Building Code and Alberta Fire Code, respectively.
Due to the safety regulations referenced above, before you open your business, an occupancy permit is an absolute requirement if:
• Renovations are a part of your plans (ie: a building permit is required), or
• There will be a change in the type of occupancy (a take-out restaurant is to be converted to include seating for diners.)
The City's Safety Codes staff will help with obtaining your occupancy permit. Prepare your ideas/plans and contact:
Planning & Development Services
2nd floor, Medicine Hat City Hall
580 1st Street SE
Phone 403.529.8374
pbe@medicinehat.ca
Occupancy Permit Application Form