Business Licence Bylaw Update
 

OVERVIEW
The Town of Osoyoos is undertaking a review of its business licence bylaw in order to ensure consistency with the recently adopted Zoning Bylaw No. 1395, 2024, and to also update the application fees being charged to businesses.

BACKGROUND
The Town of Osoyoos’ current Business Licence Bylaw No. 1045, 1997, was adopted 28 years ago and has been amended approximately 35 times in the intervening time. 

It is generally considered good practice to review a business licence bylaw when a new zoning bylaw is adopted to ensure consistency in terms of definitions, regulations and permitted use classes. Reviews are also important to ensure that the fees being applied are reflective of the costs incurred by the Town to issue licences.

A review further provides an opportunity for businesses to provide feedback on the bylaw, including such aspects as licensing fees, processes, or clarity in business use categories (e.g. consistent with the uses listed in the Town’s Zoning Bylaw).

BUSINESS LICENCE REGULATION BYLAW NO. 1400
A copy of Draft Business Licence Regulation Bylaw No. 1400 along with supporting documentation can be accessed at the following links:

A copy of the Town’s current Business Licence Bylaw No. 1045, 1997, can be accessed here: 
Business Licence Bylaw No. 1045, 1997

Important changes included within Draft Business Licence Bylaw No. 1400, include:

  • updated application fees based on use class; and, 
  • the introduction of application requirements specific to bed and breakfast and short-term rental accommodation operations.

ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Under Section 59(2) of the Community Charter, the Town must do the following before adopting a new business licence regulation bylaw:

  • give notice of its intention to adopt a new bylaw; and
  • provide an opportunity for persons who consider they are affected by the bylaw to make representations to Council.

While the Town will be directly notifying all current business licence holders of the new bylaw and asking for input, feedback from others is encouraged and can be submitted electronically to plan@osoyoos.ca by March 21, 2025.

Feedback Form

Food Truck Survey
The Town is also seeking feedback from the public (including business operators, residents, and tourists) regarding the operation of mobile vendor (i.e., food truck) businesses within the town boundaries. Any individuals who would like to provide comments specifically in relation to food trucks may do so by completing the survey at the following link by March 21, 2025: Food Truck Survey

CONTACT US!

Contact Planning and Development Services: plan@osoyoos.ca