Frequently Asked Questions

This section is organized by topic. If your question is not addressed here, please contact us.

Kananaskis Country

How do I check campground availability or reserve camping space?

Campgrounds are managed by Kananaskis Country in partnership with various facility operators. For information on campground locations, availability and reservations, please visit Kananaskis Country’s website.

Business License FAQs

Do businesses that provide their own garbage removal, water supply and sewage removal or emergency medical aid require a business license?

Yes, these are just examples of some municipal services. The business license fees allow for cost recovery of many municipal services, whether or not they are used by every business operating in Kananaskis Improvement District.

Are other permits required before the business license?

Yes, other permits are required before, or concurrent with, obtaining a business license. The business license is relatively easy to obtain and can be issued in short order if the applicant can provide the information required and pay the appropriate fee. A condition of the business licenses under the Business License Order is to obtain any and all other necessary permits required by law in the Province of Alberta.

Do production companies and large oil companies need to have all their contractors and subcontractors obtain business licenses as well?

Only contractors or subcontractors that operate on a regular basis in the Kananaskis Improvement District require a separate business license. If a company is conducting a specific activity and uses contractors or subcontractors, then they may fall under the provisions of a “Special Business License”. In this case, only one license is required to cover the event or activity.

Do caregivers at the William Watson Lodge require a separate business license?

If caregivers are a business or are employees of an agency or organization that provides this type of service in Kananaskis Country on a regular basis, then the business, agency or organization would require a business license. Private caregivers accompanying individuals to the Lodge or who are on an outing to Kananaskis Country on an irregular basis do not require a business license.

If a business license is revoked or refused, will other licensing bodies be informed accordingly?

Only under extreme circumstances would a business license be revoked or refused. Administration will make all efforts possible to inform other government agencies that have an interest in Kananaskis Country.

How are the Improvement District’s business license requirements enforced?

The Improvement District advises businesses of business license requirements by mail and through public notices advertised in local papers. If conservation officers conducting routine checks or inspections for appropriate permits find an organization deficient in this respect, they may then advise the individual of the Improvement District’s business licensing requirements and inform KID administration of the deficiency.

What is Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation's role in enforcing the Business License Order?

Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation is asked to advise applicants of the regular permitting process and of the requirement for businesses to obtain a license to operate in the KID. Applicants can be referred to KID administration for clarification on business license procedures and policies.

Are the conditions imposed on business licenses coordinated with the permitting process managed by Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation?

A copy of business licenses issued by the KID is required by Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation during the application process.

How do businesses such as an outfitter operating at several locations in the KID display their business licenses?

Businesses operating in several remote locations may carry photocopies of the appropriate business license with them.

Do weddings, or those that conduct weddings, require a business license?

An agency or organization that provides wedding services in the KID to customers requires a business license. Individuals participating in a ceremony or photography session for a wedding do not require a business license.