Business Licences and Permits

Vehicles that sell food and drinks must be licensed per the Refreshment Vehicle By-law.

Refreshment Vehicle licences cost $350 and expire on December 31 each year.

Complete a Refreshment Vehicle Licence Application to apply. 

Refreshment Vehicles operating at a Special Event that has been authorized by Council, do not require a licence, but must submit a Refreshment Vehicle Information Form to the Fire Department, no later than 14 days before the Special Event, and may be subject to an inspection by the Fire Department.

Yes. Businesses must obtain a Sidewalk Use Permit before placing merchandise on municipal sidewalks or boulevards.

You may apply if you are:

· The owner of the property, or

· A tenant of the business located beside the display area

Displays must be directly in front of your business.

Sidewalk displays are generally allowed:

April 16 to November 14

Displays must be removed daily after your business closes.

During winter, sidewalks must remain clear to allow:

· Snow clearing

· Safe pedestrian access

· Municipal maintenance

A minimum of 1.8 metres of sidewalk must remain unobstructed.

At least 1.5 metres of clear sidewalk space must remain available for pedestrians during the operating period of April 16 to November 14.

Yes, but only if:

· Food is pre-packaged

· The activity meets all requirements from Lakelands Public Health

Additional approvals may be required.

Possibly. Temporary pop-up structures may be approved if they:

· Are included in your permit application

· Meet all clearance and safety requirements

· Operate only between April 16 and November 14

Yes. Permit holders must provide proof of insurance confirming that each person is insured in the amount of $5,000,000 or more per occurrence and must name the Corporation of the Municipality of Trent Hills as an additional third party. Exact specifications for the insurance policy is outlined in By-law No. 2025-046.

No. Merchandise must:

· Relate to your business

· Comply with zoning and municipal regulations

· Not interfering with pedestrian access or traffic safety

Additional items may also be allowed, including:

· Planters

· Sandwich board signs

· Decorative displays

· Benches or small tables

All items must follow permit conditions.

Violations may result in:

· Permit suspension

· Permit revocation

· Fines of $110 per offence

Yes. The Municipality may revoke or suspend permits if:

· The area is needed for municipal work

· Safety concerns arise

· The permit holder does not comply with the by-law

Submit your application to the By-law Enforcement Office with:

· Complete application on the Citywide Portal

· Proof of insurance as per By-law No. 2025-046

· Required permit fee

· Letter of Authorization from the property owner

Note:

· Permits expire December 31 of the year they are issued.

For permit applications or questions, contact the Municipality of Trent Hills by email.