Home-Based Business

Thinking of launching a home-based business in Fort Saskatchewan? Whether you’re a sole operator working behind the scenes or looking to welcome a few customers onsite, find out how to do it right. Learn the difference between a home office and a home business, discover what’s allowed under the Land Use Bylaw, and explore how to apply for a required Development Permit. 

What is the difference between a home office and a home business?

We consider a home office to be a small business that:

• is not visible from outside the home;
• has no customer visits to the house;
• has resident employees only;
• does not require commercial vehicle parking.

A home business is a small business that:

• does not negatively impact neighbours;
• generates a small number of customer visits;
• employs one non-resident employee;
• has on-site parking for a commercial vehicle.

What permits do I need to start a home-based business?

You will need to apply for a development permit to start a home-based business.

As part of your application, you will need to give details about your business, like hours of operation and the number of customer visits.