CONP12260 – Application for a Retail Home Sales Business Licence

Jurisdiction: Canada — Alberta

What is a CONP12260 – Application for a Retail Home Sales Business Licence?

The CONP12260 is the application you submit to get licensed for retail home sales in Alberta. It covers businesses that sell goods or services in a consumer’s home. It also covers door‑to‑door solicitations and hosted in‑home sales events. Think of home party sales, security systems, HVAC, water treatment, cosmetics, and similar offerings. If you or your team enter homes to present, take orders, or sign contracts, this is your licence.

You use this form to register your business activity with the local licensing authority. It tells them who you are, what you sell, how you sell, and who sells for you. It also confirms you meet consumer and public safety standards. In many Alberta municipalities, you must have this licence before you canvass a neighbourhood or attend a home sales appointment.

Who typically uses this form?

Owners and managers of direct sales companies. Franchises that run door‑to‑door marketing. Vendors who sell at home parties. Seasonal teams that canvass for energy, internet, or home services. Contractors who close deals in the home after a quote. Out‑of‑town firms that want to operate in an Alberta municipality.

You need this form if you plan to sell outside a fixed retail location. A storefront licence does not cover in‑home sales. You must apply before you start marketing in residential areas. Many municipalities also require each salesperson to be named or registered. If you hire canvassers or independent contractors, you will list them. The form collects that information.

Typical usage scenarios

• A security company launching a summer sales program.
• A furnace installer moving from showroom to in‑home quotes.
• A kitchenware brand using party hosts.
• A solar firm running door knocking campaigns.
• An out‑of‑province vendor looking to do a local blitz.

In each case, the licence allows lawful solicitation and sales in homes, subject to local rules.

When Would You Use a CONP12260 – Application for a Retail Home Sales Business Licence?

You use this application when you plan to sell to consumers where they live. If your sales happen at the door, in kitchens, or in living rooms, you need this licence. You also use it when you add a home sales channel to an existing business. A renovation business that starts signing contracts during site visits must apply. A telecom provider that tests door‑to‑door in a new city must apply.

You also use it when entering a new municipality in Alberta. Business licences are municipal. If you expand from one city to another, you apply again for that city. Your sales team cannot assume one licence covers multiple jurisdictions. If you run province‑wide programs, plan for multiple filings and renewals.

Use this form if you engage promoters or canvassers. Even if they only set appointments, they often count as salespersons. Many bylaws treat appointment setting the same as solicitation. You list each person who will knock or present. You also update the list when your team changes.

This form applies when you sell at home parties. If you collect payment or deposits in a home, you need coverage. It also applies when you do follow‑up home visits after a kiosk lead. The location of the contract signing matters. If the contract is signed in the home, this licence usually applies.

Landlords, property managers, and real estate agents do not use this form for their core services. Their licensing sits under separate regimes. However, if a property manager sells unrelated goods door‑to‑door, they would need it for that activity. Tenants do not use this form. Homeowners do not use this form unless they run a home party business or direct sales venture.

You also use this application when you change your business model. If you move from online only to home demonstrations, apply before you start. If you add a new product category that raises safety concerns, update your licence. Examples include gas appliances, alarms, or water systems. You may need to show certifications or installer credentials.

Seasonal operations also rely on this form. Many teams staff up in spring and summer. You must hold an active, valid licence for the period you operate. Do not start canvassing while your application is pending. Inspectors can ask to see your licence on the spot. Operating without one risks fines and orders to stop work.

Legal Characteristics of the CONP12260 – Application for a Retail Home Sales Business Licence

This application is part of a regulatory process. Once approved, the licence is a legal authorization to operate within the municipality. It sets conditions you must follow. It does not replace provincial consumer rules. It works alongside them. Both levels matter. You must satisfy municipal bylaw requirements and provincial consumer standards at the same time.

The licence is legally binding because local bylaws require it. Those bylaws grant powers to issue, condition, suspend, or cancel licences. They also authorize enforcement. Officers can inspect, request documents, and verify compliance. If you breach conditions, the municipality can act. That can include fines, suspensions, or prosecution under local regulations.

What ensures enforceability?

Enforceability rests on several elements. First, the accuracy of your application. You certify the information is true and complete. Misstatements can void the licence. Second, your agreement to comply. The form includes declarations and acknowledgements. You confirm you will follow relevant rules and carry the licence while soliciting. You also consent to checks that support public safety.

Background checks and sales staff vetting reinforce enforcement. Many municipalities require police information checks for each salesperson. Some require recent photographs and identification. Some issue individual ID cards tied to the business licence. Inspectors can verify a salesperson’s status in the field. That keeps operations accountable.

Consumer protection standards also apply to your conduct. When you sell in a home, you must follow rules on disclosures and cancellations. You must provide a clear, written contract. You must include the buyer’s right to cancel within a set period. You must give receipts and contact details. If you take deposits, you must handle them properly. Some activities also require a provincial licence or bond. The municipality may ask for proof of that as part of this application.

Zoning and premises rules may impact your licence. If you store inventory or vehicles at a location, land use approval may be required. If you run a home‑based office, local home occupation rules can apply. The municipality can tie your business licence to those approvals. If your zoning changes or is revoked, the licence may be affected.

Privacy and data handling also have legal weight. The form collects personal and business information. It is used to administer licensing and ensure safety. Your signatures authorize the municipality to verify records with third parties. That can include police services and corporate registries. Keep this in mind when naming authorized contacts and salespeople.

In short, approval grants you the right to solicit and sell in homes under defined conditions. Your ongoing compliance preserves that right. The licence can be suspended or canceled if you fail to meet those conditions. Keep records, train staff, and update your licence when details change.

How to Fill Out a CONP12260 – Application for a Retail Home Sales Business Licence

Start by gathering your core documents.

• Have your legal business name, trade names, and registration number. If you are a corporation, have your corporate access number and director details. If you are a partnership or sole proprietorship, have your registration confirmation. If you use a trade name, include proof of that registration.

Confirm who will sign the application.

• The signer must be authorized to bind the business. That can be an owner, director, or appointed manager. If an agent completes the form, include a signed authorization letter. The municipality will not accept forms signed by an unauthorized person.

Prepare identification for the signer.

• Use government‑issued photo ID. You may need to present it in person or upload a copy. Match the name on the ID to the signer’s name on the form. If the ID uses a different name format, include an explanation.

Assemble your sales team information.

• List each salesperson who will solicit or sell in homes. Include full legal names, dates of birth, and contact details. Many municipalities require a recent police information check for each person. Arrange those checks in advance to avoid delays. If you expect turnover, plan a process to add or remove names quickly.

Confirm your product and service scope.

• Be precise. State what you sell and how you sell it. For example, “Home security systems with monitoring contracts, sold door‑to‑door and via in‑home demos.” Avoid vague descriptions. The licensing office assesses risk based on your scope. Clear descriptions help.
• If your activity touches regulated installations, prepare proof of competence. That may include trade tickets for installers or safety certifications. For example, gas appliances or electrical components require qualified installers. The municipality may ask for those qualifications up front.
• If your activity qualifies as direct selling under provincial rules, prepare proof of that licence. Some municipalities ask for a copy or licence number. If bonding is required, include bonding details and the amount. If you are exempt, prepare a short letter explaining why. Clear documentation speeds review.
• If you run a home‑based headquarters, confirm your land use compliance. Many municipalities allow home offices under home occupation rules. They may impose limits on signage, storage, and traffic. If needed, obtain that approval before submitting this application. If you use a commercial office or warehouse, include that address and any required permits.

Now complete the application sections, step by step.

Start with the applicant information.

• Enter your legal business name as registered. Add your trade name as used in public. Provide your business mailing address and a physical address. Do not use a PO box as the only address. Enter your business phone and email. Make sure these channels are monitored. Licensing correspondence will go there.

Identify your business structure.

• Choose corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. If a corporation, list your corporate access number and jurisdiction. Provide the names of directors or partners as requested. This supports due diligence and identity verification.

Describe your business activity.

• Use concise, specific language. Note where sales occur. State you sell in homes and door‑to‑door. Indicate if you also sell online or by referral. If you accept deposits in the home, say so. If you use third‑party financing, mention it. This helps assess consumer risk and may trigger extra requirements.

List your salespersons.

• Provide the roster with full names and roles. Indicate canvassers, closers, and managers. Attach police check confirmations if required. Some municipalities will accept a receipt showing checks are in progress. Confirm what is acceptable before submitting. Include a designated compliance contact for roster changes.

Provide your sales contract templates.

• Attach the standard form you use in homes. The contract should include your business name, address, and contact details. It should list the goods or services, price, and all fees. It should disclose the buyer’s cancellation rights and how to cancel. It should show the date and salesperson name. It should include a signature block for the buyer and the business.
• If you take deposits, explain how you handle them. State where funds are held and when you process charges. If you offer refunds within the cancellation period, note the timeline. If you provide goods immediately, describe how you handle returns if the buyer cancels. Clear processes align with consumer protection expectations.
• If your sales involve installations, outline the workflow. Describe who performs the work and their qualifications. Include proof of insurance that covers your operations. General liability coverage is standard. If you have vehicles on the road, ensure appropriate auto coverage. If your staff perform manual work, confirm workers’ compensation registration as needed.

Complete the declarations and consents.

• Read them carefully. You confirm your information is true. You agree to comply with bylaws and consumer rules. You consent to information sharing for licensing checks. You commit to update the municipality if details change. Only sign when you understand and accept these terms.

Sign and date the application.

• The signer’s printed name and title should be clear. If a corporation, use the corporate signing block. If an agent signs, attach the authorization letter. Include a copy of the signer’s photo ID if requested.

Calculate your fees.

• Business licence fees vary by municipality and category. Some cities prorate fees if you start mid‑year. Some charge per salesperson or issue salesperson ID cards. Confirm your totals and payment method. Most offices accept online payment, in‑person payment, or mail‑in cheques. Keep the receipt.

Submit the application.

• Online submission is common, but many accept in‑person or mail. If you submit online, upload clear PDFs or images. Name your files logically. If you submit in person, bring originals and copies. The clerk may scan them and return your originals.

Track your application.

• Processing times vary. If the office needs more information, respond quickly. If you are waiting on police checks, ask if a conditional approval is possible. Some offices issue a licence pending final checks. Others will not. Do not canvass until you have clear authorization.

Once approved, read your licence conditions.

• Carry a copy while soliciting. If individual ID cards are issued, make sure each salesperson has one. Train your team to present the licence or card on request. Make compliance part of your onboarding.

Plan for renewals.

• Licences expire. Put the renewal date in your system. Keep your roster current. Remove former salespeople and add new ones promptly. If your products or sales methods change, update your file. If you expand into new municipalities, repeat this process there.

Avoid common mistakes:

• Do not start sales while pending approval.
• Do not omit a salesperson to avoid a background check.
• Do not use a contract that lacks cancellation rights.
• Do not hide your address or true business name.

Inspectors test these points first.

Practical tips:

• Use real‑world discipline. Script your door approach. Require name badges. Provide written quotes and contracts every time. Leave a copy with the consumer. Honour cancellations without delay. Refund deposits within the required time. Keep your complaint handling process simple and fast.
• Keep records. Retain copies of contracts, notices, and receipts. Keep a log of canvassing routes and sales calls. Document training on consumer rights and identification. If an inspector asks, you can prove compliance. Good records protect your licence and your reputation.
• If you stop operating, close the licence. Notify the municipality in writing. Return any issued ID cards if required. Clearing your file avoids future charges and ensures a clean record. If you pivot to a storefront only, confirm if you need a different licence.
• If you face an enforcement notice, act quickly. Read the notice and understand the issue. Fix the problem and respond by the deadline. If you disagree, follow the appeal steps in the notice. Stay professional and cooperative during inspections. Most issues resolve with prompt corrective action.

By following these steps, you set your team up to sell legally and confidently. The application confirms your readiness to operate in homes. It also helps you build trust at the door. A clear licence, trained staff, and compliant contracts go a long way.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• A Retail Home Sales business means you sell goods or services at a consumer’s home. On the CONP12260 form, this label describes the activities you want licensed. If your sales happen at kitchens, driveways, or doorsteps, you are in this category. If your sales happen only in a fixed store, this licence may not fit.
• Your legal name is the official name of the person or entity that owns the business. If you are a corporation, it is the exact name on your formation documents. If you are a sole proprietor, it is your personal name. Use your legal name wherever the form asks for it. Your trade name is different. It is the name the public sees on marketing and contracts. If you use a trade name, record it on the form as requested.
• An authorized representative is the person you permit to deal with the regulator for this application. This person can sign forms, answer questions, and receive notices. If you appoint one, list them on the CONP12260 form and ensure they know the business details. You are still responsible for what they submit.
• A director or officer is a person who controls or manages a corporation. The form may ask you to list all directors and officers. Include full names, positions, and contact details. If ownership changes later, you must update the licence file. Leaving someone out can delay your approval.
• An extra-provincial registration is your registration to carry on business in a province when you are formed elsewhere. If your company is formed outside Alberta, the form may ask for proof of extra-provincial registration. Have your registration details available. If you operate without it, the licence can be denied or suspended.
• A business number is a unique identifier for tax and payroll accounts. The form may ask for this number. If you do not have one yet, note that and explain when you expect to obtain it. Provide accurate identifiers. Wrong numbers cause verification delays.
• A background disclosure means you must state past convictions, fines, licence refusals, or bankruptcies. The form can ask these for the business, directors, officers, and sales staff. Answer completely and truthfully. If something is pending, say so. Omissions can lead to refusal, even if the issue was minor.
• A sample contract is a template you use with consumers in home sales. The form may request a copy to verify required disclosures. Make sure your contract shows your legal name, cancellation rights, pricing, and delivery terms. Check that the contract matches what you described in your application.
• A trust account is a separate bank account that holds consumer funds until certain conditions are met. Some business models use them for deposits. If the form asks about trust accounts, give the bank name, branch, and account designation. Do not list a personal account as a trust account.
• Declarations and consent appear near the end of the form. A declaration confirms the truth of your statements. A consent allows the regulator to verify information, including contacting other bodies. Read these sections closely. When you sign, you accept legal responsibility for the submission.
• A licence term is how long the licence stays valid. The form will request the start date or confirm the default term. Note the renewal date and any pro-rated timing rules. If you miss renewal, you may not legally operate while unlicensed.
• Conditions of licence are rules specific to your approval. You might see conditions about identification cards, contract wording, or recordkeeping. The form can set you up for these conditions based on the activities you select. When approved, follow every condition. Breaches can lead to penalties.
• A responsible person is the individual the regulator will contact for compliance issues. This can be an owner, director, or manager. On the form, pick someone who knows daily operations. If this person changes, update the licence file quickly.

FAQs

Do you need this licence if you only sell at a fixed retail store?

If your sales occur only at a permanent store location, you typically do not need a Retail Home Sales licence. This licence covers sales at a consumer’s home or another location away from your business premises. If you sometimes meet consumers in their homes to close deals, you likely need it.

Do you need a separate licence for each salesperson?

The CONP12260 form focuses on the business licence. However, you may need to identify sales staff, issue identification, or meet staff-related requirements. Expect to disclose who sells on your behalf. Keep staff records current. If the regulator requires individual authorizations, follow those instructions.

Do you need to submit a sample consumer contract with the application?

You may. Many applications ask for the contract used during home sales. Attach a clean, readable copy. Ensure it shows your legal and trade names, pricing, payment terms, delivery dates, and cancellation rights. If your contract changes after licensing, update your file if requested.

Do you need insurance to get licensed?

The form may ask about insurance coverage, such as general liability. If asked, provide the insurer name, policy number, and coverage period. Keep your certificate current. If your insurer or coverage changes, note the effective date and inform the regulator if required.

Do you need to register your trade name before applying?

If you operate under a name different from your legal name, you generally register that trade name. The form may prompt for registration details. Registering the trade name before filing avoids delays. Use the exact spelling and spacing across all documents.

Do you need a physical office in Alberta?

You do not always need a physical storefront. But you must provide a reliable business address and service address for notices. If you are formed outside Alberta, you may need extra-provincial registration. The form will ask for your home jurisdiction and local contact details.

Do you need to disclose past convictions or licence issues?

Yes. The form typically asks for background disclosures for the business and key individuals. Be direct and complete. Provide dates, jurisdictions, and outcomes. If you have supporting documents, prepare to supply them. Full disclosure builds credibility and avoids refusal for non-disclosure.

Do you need to renew the licence every year?

Most business licences have a set term. Expect to renew before expiry. The form or approval letter will confirm the term and renewal process. Calendar your renewal date the day you apply. Late renewals can interrupt your ability to operate.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the CONP12260 – Application for a Retail Home Sales Business Licence

Before signing

• Confirm your legal structure and name. Gather your formation documents.
• If using a trade name, have the registration record ready.
• Gather your business number and any corporate access number.
• List all directors, officers, and owners. Include full legal names and positions.
• Prepare a clear description of your Retail Home Sales activities.
• Compile a list of sales staff, if the form requests it.
• Collect identification details for the authorized representative, if any.
• Obtain your business address, mailing address, and service address for notices.
• Prepare a sample consumer contract used in home sales.
• Gather proof of insurance, if requested by the form.
• Have trust account details ready, if you use one for consumer funds.
• Collect any past licence numbers, refusals, or suspensions for disclosure.
• Prepare background information on convictions, fines, or bankruptcies.
• Identify your proposed start date and expected operating locations.
• Confirm payment method and ensure the payer name matches the applicant.

During signing

• Verify the legal name and trade name match your supporting documents.
• Check that the business and service addresses are complete and consistent.
• Confirm director and officer information is accurate and current.
• Review your activity description for clarity and relevance to home sales.
• Ensure your contract attachment is readable and reflects current terms.
• Confirm staff lists are complete and names are spelled correctly.
• Double-check insurance details, including policy number and dates.
• If declaring a trust account, confirm the account designation and bank details.
• Review all disclosure questions and answer every one.
• Read the declarations and consents carefully. Ensure you understand them.
• Sign and date where required. If multiple signatures are needed, obtain them.
• If someone signs on your behalf, confirm the authorization is documented.
• Label every attachment clearly. Cross-reference them on the form.

After signing

• Make a complete copy of the signed CONP12260 and all attachments.
• File the application using the accepted submission method.
• Secure proof of payment and submission. Save digital and physical copies.
• Track your application status and note any file number assigned.
• Respond promptly to any regulator requests for clarification.
• Once approved, store the licence where staff can access it.
• Display the licence as required by the approval letter.
• Calendar the renewal date and set reminders well in advance.
• Update internal policies to reflect any licence conditions.
• Train staff on identification, contract use, and disclosure requirements.
• Set up a change log to track updates to owners, staff, or addresses.
• Store records for the period required by your approval letter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t forget to use your exact legal name.
• Using a trade name where the form asks for the legal name causes mismatches. Expect verification delays and possible rejection. Cross-check with your formation documents.
• Don’t skip background disclosures.
• Leaving out convictions, bankruptcies, or licence refusals can lead to refusal for non-disclosure. Provide a short explanation and documents if asked.
• Don’t attach a contract that lacks cancellation rights.
• Home-sale contracts often must show clear consumer rights. Submitting a contract without required disclosures can stall your application.
• Don’t list a personal account as a trust account.
• If you declare a trust account, it must be properly designated. Mislabeling accounts can cause refusal and compliance reviews.
• Don’t miss signatures or dates.
• Unsigned or undated applications get returned. Confirm all required signatories signed. Confirm the date is current and legible.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

Submit your CONP12260 with all attachments and payment.

• Use the accepted filing method. Keep a full copy of everything sent. Save a timestamped proof of submission and payment.

Watch for receipt and file number.

• Record any file or reference number you receive. Share it with your authorized representative and internal team.

Respond quickly to information requests.

• If the regulator asks for clarifications, reply within the timeline given. Provide complete answers that align with your form.

Review your approval letter and conditions.

• Note display requirements, recordkeeping periods, staff ID rules, and any activity limits. Add these to your compliance checklist.

Set up staff training and scripts.

• Train sales staff on licence conditions and contract usage. Ensure they know how to show identification and deliver required disclosures.

Update your consumer contract if needed.

• Align your contract with the statements in your application. Keep version control. If you change material terms, assess whether you must notify the regulator.

Prepare to display the licence.

• Place a copy where you store business records and issue ID cards if required. Ensure field staff know how to verify their authority.

Create a change-reporting process.

• If owners, directors, addresses, or trade names change, prepare a standard update package. Include a cover note, supporting documents, and dates of change.

Calendar renewals and audits.

• Set reminders 90, 60, and 30 days before renewal. Schedule an annual file review to confirm your staff list, insurance, and contracts remain current.

Maintain records.

• Keep applications, approvals, consumer contracts, receipts, and correspondence for the period stated in your approval. Store securely with access controls.

Plan for amendments.

• If you add new products, start a new region, or change sales methods, review whether you need to amend your licence. If so, prepare an amendment submission with updated attachments.

Coordinate with municipal or other requirements.

• If your activities cross jurisdictions or require local permits, ensure those are in place. Align renewal cycles to reduce missed deadlines.

Prepare for compliance visits.

• Have your licence, staff ID procedures, contract templates, and recent sales records ready for inspection. Keep a log of any consumer complaints and resolutions.

If your application is refused.

• Request the reason in writing. Fix the issues noted. Consider resubmission with stronger documentation. Keep your response factual and concise.

If you cease operations.

• Notify the regulator that you are closing. Satisfy any recordkeeping obligations. Keep a copy of the closure notice with your files.