Starting a Business in Wetaskiwin

Starting a business in Wetaskiwin, Alberta means joining a community that is built for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators. Located in Central Alberta with direct access to Highway 2A and close proximity to the Edmonton Metropolitan Region, Wetaskiwin offers the ideal balance of market access, affordability, and quality of life.

Whether you are opening a retail storefront, launching a service-based company, or investing in industrial or commercial development, Wetaskiwin provides the support, infrastructure, and opportunity to help your business succeed.

Local Business Supports

Economic Development is your first point of contact if you have business questions and aren’t sure where to start.

• Our team can connect you with the right departments and contacts
• Provide local market insights and community data
•  Assist with site selection and opportunity identification
•   Help navigate municipal processes and requirements
•  Connect you to regional, provincial, and industry resources

Wetaskiwin offers concierge-style business support to help you navigate the local business landscape and access networking and growth opportunities.

Planning & Development

The Planning team can help guide you on what types of businesses and uses are permitted in specific locations and are well-versed in applicable bylaws, policies, and regulations. This team is responsible for processing development permits, sign permits, business licences, and enforcing the Land Use Bylaw.

Before purchasing or leasing a space for your business, it’s important to confirm that the property is properly zoned for your intended use. If a new business changes the approved Type of Use for a space, development and building permits may be required.

All new businesses must complete a fire inspection prior to opening. A business licence will not be issued until the fire inspection has been successfully completed and passed.

Contact: permits@wetaskiwin.ca

Business Licenses:

Most businesses operating within the City of Wetaskiwin require a municipal business licence. Licence requirements, exemptions, and fee structures are outlined in the City’s Business Licence Bylaw and Fees and Charges Bylaw.

Contact Planning and Development for business licences information. 

Types of Business Licences

Wetaskiwin offers several licence categories, including:

• • Local Resident – Businesses based within the City of Wetaskiwin
  • Home-Based Business – Businesses operating from a residential property
  • Regional-Resident Business – Businesses based in Wetaskiwin County and operating within City limits
  • Non-Resident Business – Businesses based outside Wetaskiwin and Wetaskiwin County but operating within city limits
  • Mobile Business – Businesses operating from temporary structures, displays, or stands
  • Non-Profit or Charitable Organization – Organizations operating within the city

Business Directory

As you complete the Business Licence application, you’ll see a section where you can provide consent to be included in the City’s online business directory. This directory helps connect customers, residents, and potential investors with local businesses.

Home-based businesses may also have options for how their business location information is displayed.  

Click HERE to see the Business Directory

We’re Here to Help Your Business Succeed

From your first question to your grand opening — and beyond — the City of Wetaskiwin is here to support your business journey.

In Wetaskiwin, WE WIN — together.