Sole Proprietorship

This is the simplest way to set up a business. A sole proprietorship is fully responsible for all debts and obligations related to his or her business. A creditor with a claim against a sole proprietor would normally have a right against all of his or her assets, whether business or personal. This is known as unlimited liability.

This type of business comes under provincial jurisdiction. If the proprietor chooses to carry on a business under a name other than his/her own, he/she must register with the province. This function is now administered by the Private Registries. If a sole proprietor establishes a business in his/her own name, without adding any other words, registering the business is not necessary.

In the case of purchasing an existing business, municipal licenses may be transferred subject to license inspection approval. However, you are advised to check the current zoning status of the facility. EDMONTON business owners an annual License fee of $150 plus the license category fee related to your particular business. You may contact the following offices for additional information regarding business development and licensing requirements in Edmonton: development permits, or for use permits when locating in commercial premises. You should also contact the Business License Section to determine whether you need a license.

An essential Calgary brochure is entitled A Guide to City Business Licensing. It answers most general questions, provides contact phone numbers and lists all of the types of businesses that require licenses in Calgary. However, even if your type of business is not listed, Business Licensing will ask you to describe your proposed business, and will advise you about licensing and development requirements.