Business Licensing By-Law Review
The City of Cornwall is conducting a review of the proposed Business Licensing By-Law #2024-033 to better understand how it meets the needs of the community.
The purpose of this review is to ensure that the City has a new, modernized contemporary By-Law that better protects consumers, streamlines and simplifies the Business License application process, and ensures that businesses which require a license are meeting regulatory requirements.
What is a Municipal Business License?
A municipal Business License is an official document that allows a business to operate in a municipality or city and comply with zoning, fire and By-Law requirements. Municipalities issue Business Licenses to protect the health and safety of the public, ensure businesses comply with regulations, and ensure businesses are on a level playing field.
Not every business requires a municipal Business License. In fact, most small businesses do not. However, there are instances where a municipal Business License benefits the community as a whole. For example, a Business License application for a restaurant will ensure that the premises are inspected annually by health and fire safety officials, that there are washrooms on site, there is enough parking for customers and the business meets zoning regulations.
What has Changed?
The new Business License By-Law consolidates over 25+ former By-Laws, some dating back to 1975. The number of business categories requiring a license has been reduced from 26 to 8.
We Want to Hear from You!
We want help to identify any gaps in the new By-Law. Whether you are the general public, a Business Owner, or a Special Event Organizer, we want to learn about your experience of applying for a Business License or a Special Event Business License as well as your thoughts on the new regulations.
Please take a moment to complete one of the following online surveys:
- Business Owner Survey (complete if you are a Cornwall-based business owner required to have a municipal Business License).
- Special Event Organizer Survey (complete if you are a Cornwall-based Special Event Organizer).
- Public Survey (complete if you are a Cornwall resident).
Please note that all responses will be kept confidential, and only aggregated information will be shared.