Business Licences and Permits (Trent Hills web page)

Trent Hills, Ontario · summary & facts

This is the exact embedded text of the captured official document. Snapshot c8f54cbcbb0b · verified 2026-10-19 · original document · archived snapshot · unofficial consolidation, the official version is held by the municipal clerk.

# Business Licences and Permits Below are the common business permits and licences required by the Municipality of Trent Hills. Please contact us if you have any questions, can't find what you're looking for, or need any help. Refreshment Vehicle Licence 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. Frequently Asked Questions Sidewalk Use Permit The Municipality of Trent Hills allows local businesses to display and sell merchandise on municipal sidewalks with a permit. This helps create vibrant commercial areas while ensuring sidewalks remain safe and accessible for pedestrians. This program is governed by Municipal By-law 2025-046. Do I need a permit to display merchandise on the sidewalk? Yes. Businesses must obtain a **Sidewalk Use Permit** before placing merchandise on municipal sidewalks or boulevards. Who can apply for a permit? You may apply if you are: · The **owner of the property**, or · A t**enant of the business located beside the display area** Displays must be directly **in front of your business**. When can I display merchandise outside? Sidewalk displays are generally allowed: **April 16 to November 14** Displays must be removed daily after your business closes. How much sidewalk space must remain clear? At least **1.5 metres of clear sidewalk space** must remain available for pedestrians during the operating period of **April 16 to November 14.** What happens in the winter? 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 all times. Please minimize displays to prioritize safety during the winter control period of November 15 to April 15. Can I sell food from a sidewalk display? Yes, but only if: · Food is **pre-packaged** · The activity meets all requirements from **Lakelands Public Health** Additional approvals may be required. Can I use a pop-up tent or display structure? 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** Do I need insurance? 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. Please note that applicants will be permitted to hold $2,000,000 insurance coverage during the implementation period, until January 1, 2027. Can I display anything I want? 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. What happens if I don't comply with the Sidewalk Use Permit requirements and conditions contained in By-law No. 2025-046: Violations may result in: · Permit suspension · Permit revocation · Fines of **$110 per offence** Can the Municipality cancel my permit? 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 How do I apply? 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**. Need More Information? For permit applications or questions, contact the Municipality of Trent Hills by email. Contact Us **Municipality of Trent Hills** 66 Front St S, PO Box 1030 Campbellford, ON K0L1L0 T. 705-653-1900 F. 705-653-5203 [email protected] Land Acknowledgement We recognize the traditional keepers of this land and, specifically our neighbours of the Alderville First Nation, with a formal territorial acknowledgement. Welcome to the Gunshot Treaty Lands of 1788. It is on these lands and on the shores of the big lake, the Mississauga Anishinabeg met with the Crown to facilitate the opening of these lands for settlement. Let us be reminded of the responsibility we all have in making sure that we respect these lands and waters that give us life and sustain our livelihoods.