Do I need a business licence?
All businesses operating in Wrenford need a licence. This keeps our community safe and ensures your business follows our zoning and building rules. Whether you run a shop on Tamsin Street, work from your home in Westbrook, or provide services across the city, you must be licensed. For a full list of who needs a licence, see Business licence types and categories.
Types of business licences
Resident businesses
If your business operates from a property inside Wrenford, you need a resident business licence. We will check your premises to make sure it meets building, fire, plumbing and environmental rules. You will usually hear back within five to ten business days.
Non-resident businesses
If your main office is outside Wrenford but you sell or work here, you need a non-resident business licence. We do not inspect the site, and approval usually takes three to five business days.
Home-based businesses
If you run a business from your house, you need a home-based business licence. You must follow our Home-based business guidelines for space limits, customer visits and noise. A City planner will review your application before you can open.
How to apply and pay
You can start your application online through the Wrenford Business Portal. You will need to choose your licence type, upload any required documents and pay the application fee. You can also pick up a paper form at Wrenford City Hall or call the Business Navigation Service team at 519-555-0147.
When your application is approved, we will send you an invoice by email or mail. You can pay online, by phone, or in person at City Hall or the Tamsin Valley Leisure Centre. We accept cash, cheque and credit card.
Fees and deadlines
Business licences are valid for one year from the date we issue them. Fees depend on your licence type:
- Home-based business: $125.00 annually
- Commercial or industrial business: $250.00 annually
- Non-resident business: $475.00 annually
There is a one-time $50.00 application fee for new licences. If you pay late, a 10 per cent penalty is added to your balance. All licences must be renewed by December 31 each year. See Business licence fees and rates for the full schedule.
Renewing your licence
Your licence renews automatically. We will mail or email a renewal notice about 30 days before it expires. You can pay through the Wrenford Business Portal or by mail. If you do not pay by the deadline, your licence will lapse and you must reapply as a new customer. Learn more about Business licence renewal.
Changing or cancelling your licence
If you move your business, change the owner, or update your company name, you must submit a new application or change request. There is no fee to update contact information, but changing ownership or the business location requires a full review.
If you stop operating in Wrenford, let us know by email or phone so we can close your account. You do not need to return your physical licence.
Contact us
For help with your application, to check your status, or to ask about permits for your specific trade, contact the Business Navigation Service team.
Phone: 519-555-0147
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.