Home-Based Businesses

Home-Based Businesses  

Home-Based Businesses are regulated by the Land Use Bylaw and require both a development permit and a business license. This section explains the different types of Home-Based Business in the Land Use Bylaw, and how to apply for a development permit for one.  

Thinking about operating a home-based business?

All home-based businesses and home offices require an approved development permit and business license prior to opening. In the City of Wetaskiwin, the Land Use Bylaw 1804-13 lists Home Office, Minor Home-Based Business, and Major Home-Based Business as the three types of home occupation uses.

How to apply for a Home-Based Business permit

Step 1. Determine what zoning district your property is located in.

Step 2. Determine what type of Home-Based Business you plan to operate.

  • There are three types of Home-Based Business in the Land Use Bylaw. Each has its own regulations. They are summarized in the section below.
  • For more information, review the Land Use Bylaw & Webmap page

Step 3. Determine if your Home-Based Business is Permitted or Discretionary.

  • Use the Land Use Bylaw to find the specific regulations that apply to your zoning district. These will list Permitted and Discretionary Uses.  
  • Permitted Uses are types of development that are allowed within the zoning district. Discretionary Uses are types of development that are allowed at the discretion of the Development Authority, depending on whether they are compatible with neighbouring uses. 
  • For more information, review the Land Use Bylaw & Webmap page.

Step 4: Complete and submit a Home-Based Business application. 


Types of Home-Based Businesses 

1. Home Office - Zero (0) business visits per day

A Home Office is a dedicated area in a dwelling which has a phone and/or fax for a registered business entity, but where there are no business clients, employees, products or deliveries.

Click here to view Section 8.7.1 of the Land Use Bylaw outlining the regulations of a Home Office.

2. Minor Home Based Business - One (1) business visit per day

A Minor Home Based Business is the use of an approved dwelling within a residential building by a resident of that dwelling for one or more businesses. Such businesses shall not require more than one business-related visit per day at that dwelling. The business use must be secondary to the residential use of the building and no aspects of the business operations shall be detectable from outside the property other than an approved sign. The dwelling shall not be used as a workplace for non-resident employees of the business. This use class does not include general retail sales.

Click here to view Section 8.7.2 of the Land Use Bylaw outlining the regulations of a Minor Home Based Business.

Major Home Based Business - One or more (1+) business visits per day

A Major Home Based Business is a development consisting of the use of an approved dwelling or accessory building by a resident of that dwelling for one or more business associated visits per day. The business use must be secondary to the residential use of the building and shall not change the residential character of the dwelling or accessory building with the exception of an approved sign. This use class includes bed and breakfast facilities but does not include general retail sales.

Click here to view Section 8.7.3 of the Land Use Bylaw outlining the regulations of a Major Home Based Business

Business Licenses: 

All businesses that operate within the City of Wetaskiwin require a valid business license. 

For more information, visit the Permits & Licenses page.