What to know before starting a business

Starting or buying a business in Airdrie? There are multiple steps to opening a business within the City of Airdrie. There are a number of licenses and permits your business will require before you open your doors.

Every business, occupation or trade that is carried on with the intention of making a profit within the City of Airdrie's limits requires the following:

• Business licence, as regulated under the Business Licence Bylaw (pdf)
• Land use approval, as regulated under the Land Use Bylaw (pdf)
• Building permit approval, as regulated under the National Building Code

Market research tool

• Local information to help your business make smarter, faster, better decisions is available with our market research tool.

Before you sign a lease, you must ensure the land use zoning and building classification will allow for your business type to operate in the location.

• Not sure where to start? The City of Airdrie offers pre-applications meetings. Send us a message for more information or to schedule a meeting.

Looking for space to operate your business? Steady growth and market activity has provided many real estate and land development opportunities.

Learn more about land and space opprtunities in airdrie

• Airdrie offers a very competitive tax environment. The City of Airdrie does not charge a business tax. Learn more and try our tax estimator.
• Many organizations in Airdrie offer funding support and advice. Learn more about the organizations and services that can support your business.

Water & wastewater

• All utilities usage is metered. Businesses are responsible for purchasing water meters from the City of Airdrie (who will supply and install the meter). Meters must be paid for at the same time the building permit is purchased. Visit water and sewer utilities for more information.

Industrial wastewater monitoring

• The industrial monitoring program provides the City of Airdrie a way to monitor, track and document effects of industry on city infrastructure and the environment.  

Garbage collection & recycling

• The City of Airdrie provides garbage and organics collection for single family/duplex residences. Businesses are responsible for making their own arrangements for this service. Small businesses (Canadian-based corporations with fewer than 100 employees) and farms can use Airdrie’s Recycle Depot through their business recycling program.

Telecommunications

• A range of telecommunications providers service Airdrie to meet your telephone, wireless, and internet needs.