We’re updating the City’s Business License By-law to make it simpler, more efficient, and supportive of local businesses. Participate in our engagement opportunities and help shape the future of business in Yellowknife.
Why are we updating the Bylaw?
The City of Yellowknife’s Business License By-law was first adopted on August 27,1990. Since then, business practices have evolved, and some parts of the by-law no longer reflect how local businesses operate today. This can make licensing processes confusing, slow, or more complicated than they need to be.
We are modernizing the by-law to:
- Reduce red tape and simplify processes
- Support economic growth, innovation, and investment
- Align with community values, including reconciliation and sustainability
- Make licensing clear, easy to understand, and practical for all types of businesses
Updating the by-law is about creating a fair, predictable, and future-ready system that works for everyone.
Why your input matters?
We want to hear from local businesses, entrepreneurs, home-based businesses, non-profits, Indigenous governments, and other stakeholders. Your feedback will help us:
- Understand what works well in the current by-law and what could be improved
- Identify ways to make licensing processes more efficient
- Ensure fees and administrative procedures are fair and accessible
- Make the by-law clear, practical, and future-ready
Your voice will be reflected in a “What We Heard” report, which City staff will consider when making updates to the by-law and before Council makes final decisions.
How to get involved?
The City is asking for your feedback to help shape the updated Business License By-law. We are engaging at the “Consult” level, which means we want to hear your ideas, opinions, and suggestions, and will use your input to guide changes.
In IAP2 terms, “Consult” means listening to the community and providing stakeholders with opportunities to provide input before decisions are made. Your feedback will be summarized, considered by City staff, and included in a “What We Heard” report that informs Council’s decision-making.
Ways to participate:
- Online Survey – Share your thoughts on licensing processes, fees, and accessibility. City of Yellowknife: Business License By-law Modernization – Fill out form
- Public Engagement Sessions – Join in-person roundtables and open sessions to discuss the by-law with City staff.
- Date: , Feb 18th, 2026
- Time: 6:00–8:00 p.m.
- Location: Council Chambers, City Hall Targeted one-on-one meetings are being scheduled with key business owners, investors, and organizations to discuss specific considerations and gather detailed input.
Your input will directly influence updates to the by-law, helping make it clearer, simpler, and better suited to Yellowknife’s businesses.
Engagement Timelines
- Phase 1: Public Engagement (Jan – March 2026)
- Phase 2: Draft, Review and Feedback (Apr – Jun 2026)
- Phase 3: Presentation (July – Aug 2026)
- Phase 4: Decision and Approval (Sept 2026)
Looking forward to hearing from you
Your voice matters. By sharing your feedback through our surveys, public sessions, or one-on-one meetings, you can help shape a Business License By-law that is clear, fair, and supports growth in Yellowknife. Don’t miss this opportunity to have your say!
Contact Information
Questions or want to discuss your feedback? Reach out to the Economic Opportunities & Investment team through ecd@yellowknife.ca.