All businesses in Weyburn require a business license if they plan to operate commercial, merchandising, or industrial activity within the City of Weyburn boundaries.

As COVID-19 restrictions relax and door-to-door sales activities are permitted in Re-Open Saskatchewan guidelines, the City is reminding its residents and direct sellers of provincial and municipal requirements that need to be followed.

"For door-to-door sales, they must adhere to all of the current guidelines," explained Donette Richter, City Clerk and Business License Inspector for the City of Weyburn. "Some of them are that people must remain two meters apart at all times and no direct contact between the canvassers and the public. So that would include things like handing out flyers, papers, pens, etcetera. There are other guidelines on the Government of Canada website and if you want to be a door-to-door salesman you have to follow all of the guidelines."

Direct sellers and their salespeople must have a valid provincial license and a City of Weyburn non-residential business license. It is an offense to operate a direct seller's business or make direct sales without first obtaining a license.

"The City of Weyburn Business License Bylaw states that anyone who contravenes that bylaw, so does not make an application or is not approved for a business license can be fined," Richter stated. "An individual can be fined up to $2000 and a corporation can be fined up to $5000. As well, their license may be revoked in the City of Weyburn."

As a resident, you are encouraged to ask door-to-door salespeople for proof of licenses. Learn how to recognize, reject and report fraud, scams, or misleading claims on the Government of Canada website and reports should be made to local police for enforcement at (306) 848-3250.

"If it is a charitable or non-profit organization they are not required to purchase a door-to-door license in the city of Weyburn. But they must comply with all COVID guidelines as set out by the provincial government and the Saskatchewan Health Authority. So all of those guidelines would apply just like they would for anyone else or any door-to-door salesperson," added Richter.

You can learn more about the City of Weyburn's business licensing here. Learn more about the Direct Sellers Act on the provincial Financial and Consumers Affairs Authority website.

Aside from the business license, there are often additional requirements that must be met so it is important that you make sure you are well aware of all applicable regulations. For further information on business licenses, please contact the Business Licence Inspector at (306) 848-3209.