Business Licensing
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What types of businesses require a business licence?
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A business licence is needed to operate any of the following types of businesses in Orillia:
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Auctioneer
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Adult entertainment parlour
- Adult entertainment store
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Hawker and pedlar (includes door-to-door sales or at a specific location, as well as fruit and vegetable stands)
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Refreshment vehicle (includes charity barbecues)
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Mobile catering truck (includes ice cream trucks)
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Salvage yard
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Newspaper/periodical distribution box
- Ride-sharing and Taxicab Services
Applications are available at the Orillia City Centre, 50 Andrew St. S. (3rd Floor) and on the Business Licences page.
For more information, launch BizPaL, an online service that provides an entrepreneur or business owner with a central place to find all the permit and licence information needed to start or grow a business.
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Fruit and Vegetable Stands
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Are there limitations on the origin of produce that can be sold at fruit/vegetable stands?
Yes. Only produce grown on lands in Ontario are permitted to be sold at the stands. The primary purposes of the restriction are to support Ontario Farmers and to limit the carbon footprint.
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Does the City licence door-to-door sales of natural gas and electricity?
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No. The City does not licence individuals who go door to door selling contracts for natural gas and electricity. However, gas marketers and retailers of electricity require a licence from the Ontario Energy Board. The licensee must comply with consumer protection rules and other applicable legislation and is accountable for the conduct of employees and sales agents.
For more information or if you have complaints about a specific gas marketer or electricity retailer, contact the Ontario Energy Board at 1-877-632-2727.
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Does the issuance of a business licence mean that the City endorses the products being sold door-to-door?
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No. The issuance of a licence simply means that the applicant has met the by-law requirements including payment of the licence fee. |
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Ride-sharing and Taxi Cab Services
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Summary of By-law Regulations for Ride-sharing and Taxicab Services
The by-law regulations governing transportation network companies, or TNCs (commonly referred to as ride-sharing services) and taxicab companies can be found in the Licensing By-law. These regulations establish minimum standards, and are intended to help ensure passenger safety, and consumer protection. Regulations include:
- Maximum vehicle age limit of ten (10) years.
- Safety standards certificate from a licensed Ontario mechanic for each vehicle operating under a TNC required once every year (semi-annually for taxicabs).
- A criminal record check is the minimum requirement annually for all drivers that provide transportation services (ride-sharing and taxi-cab services). However, any taxicab driver that transports a person under 18 years of age (that is not with an adult), must first obtain a vulnerable sector screening certificate.
- Insurance must be maintained including commercial general liability insurance with a limit of not less 5 million dollars per occurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions about Transportation Network Companies (TNC) and Taxicab Companies:
Does the City set the fares charged by licensed transportation companies? No. TNCs and taxicab companies set fares they feel are appropriate for their business model.
Are licensed companies permitted to implement surge pricing? Yes. A TNC can apply surge pricing during peak (busy) periods for example, but a customer must agree to the price before the trip begins through the TNC’s app. Taxicab companies must ensure all rates including any scheduled price variance, is prominently displayed in characters of at least 0.5 centimetres in height and in Arial font on the sun visor or dashboard of each taxicab so that it is readable by any passenger situated inside the vehicle.
Do I need a licence from the City to be a TNC or taxicab driver? No. Only the companies require a licence to operate in Orillia. Drivers associated with a licensed TNC or taxicab company do not require a separate licence from the City. The City conducts random audits to determine whether all drivers affiliated with TNCs and taxicab companies are meeting by-law requirements.
Is street hailing prohibited? Street hailing of TNC vehicles is prohibited; all trips must be booked in advance through the TNC’s app. Street hailing of taxicabs is permitted.
When I book a trip with through a TNC’s application will I always see the driver’s name and photo? Before a trip starts, TNCs must give customers (through their app.), the driver’s first name and photo, as well as the companies’ contact information, estimated cost of a requested trip based on the destination, description of the vehicle, license plate number, and current location of the TNC Vehicle. Before getting into a vehicle, it is recommended that you check to make sure the photo matches with the driver that is picking you up.
Are TNC vehicles required to have any identifying markings or decals? Yes. TNC vehicles must have a decal displayed in the front windshield (passenger side) which displays the logo or name of the TNC. Taxicabs are also required to be identified which includes having a roof light.
Learn more about licensed transportation businesses in Orillia.
For more information about the by-law regulations, or file a complaint, contact the by-law office at 705-325-2313, or submit a complaint online.
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Clean Yards
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Does the City have a by-law that regulates properties where garbage or derelict vehicles are stored?
Yes. Chapter 834 of the Municipal Code prohibits the storing of waste on a property including:.
- Unlicensed motor vehicles
- Household garbage
- Tires
Complaints must be submitted in writing to the Clerk's Department - Legislative Services Division. Complaints may be submitted by email or in person at the Orillia City Centre, (1st floor), 50 Andrew St. S. Please note that the complainant remains anonymous.
City of Orillia Clean and Clear By-law
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Fireworks
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It is illegal at all times to detonate any fireworks within a residential area or quiet zone, or from a location where the sound will travel to these areas. |
Graffiti
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Does the City of Orillia have an Anti-Graffiti By-law?
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Yes. The Anti-Graffiti By-law prohibits a person from placing graffiti on any property, and also requires an owner to remove any graffiti placed on their property.
A person who breaches the Anti-Graffiti By-law can face a fine of up to $5,000.
The by-law also provides the authority for City staff or its contractors to enter onto a private property to remove graffiti and recover the costs of doing the work in the same manner as property taxes.
City of Orillia Anti-Graffiti By-law
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What is the purpose of an Anti-Graffiti By-law?
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Graffiti promotes a negative image to residents, visitors and businesses. An Anti-Graffiti By-law provides a tool to the municipality to have graffiti removed which helps improve the overall appearance of the City. Moreover, the by-law has the potential to reduce future instances of graffiti as individuals will be less inclined to place graffiti throughout the City if their "tags" are removed promptly. |
How do I report a complaint regarding graffiti?
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If you observe a person placing graffiti on someone's property, please contact the Ontario Provincial Police immediately at: 1-888-310-1122.
If you wish to report graffiti located on a property so that City staff can follow up with the property owner to have it removed, you can choose one of the following options:
- Email clerks@orillia.ca
- Call 705-325-2313
- Report the matter in person at the Orillia City Centre, 50 Andrew Street South (1st Floor).
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Who do I contact if I have questions regarding the Anti-Graffiti By-law?
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Contact the Clerk's Department - Legislative Services Division by choosing one of the following options:
- Email clerks@orillia.ca
- Call 705-325-2313
- Report the matter in person at the Orillia City Centre, 50 Andrew Street South (1st Floor).
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Do you have tips on how to remove graffiti?
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Brick/Stone
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Apply a paint remover or chemical graffiti remover with a soft brush and then rinse off with water.
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If the graffiti is more difficult to remove, try a gel product and let it sit on the surface for 10 - 15 minutes.
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Rinse with a power or pressure washer.
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Depending on the type of paint used, a shadow tag may remain after cleaning. Usually a second cleaning will remove or reduce the appearance of the shadow.
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NOTE: Hot water pressure is more effective than a cold water system when removing graffiti.
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Metal
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- Apply a small amount of graffiti remover, use a gentle scrub pad or cloth, and then wash off with a spray water bottle.
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Tile/Granite/Marble
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- These surfaces are very delicate and we recommend you seek professional advice.
- You can try applying a small amount graffiti remover to a small area and gently scrubbing it off.
- Stop immediately if you see this process is damaging the area.
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Wood
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- Painting over or power washing the area may be most effective.
- In some cases graffiti remover can be applied and scrubbed with a soft scrub pad.
- Always test the remover in a small area before covering the entire surface.
- When painting over, be sure to match the original paint colour as best as you can and paint the entire surface.
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Plastic (including vinyl siding)
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- Use graffiti remover and lightly use a scrub pad, then rinse or use a pressure washer.
- CAUTION: Some plastics will break down as soon as remover is applied, so it's best to try a small area to start.
- In some cases, a mild household cleaner may remove the graffiti, however, you may end up having to repaint the area with matching paint.
- Do not use paint thinners as they can soften the plastic and can cause clouding or permanent tackiness of the surface.
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Glass
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- Use a razor blade to scrape off the graffiti and/or use graffiti remover.
- If the graffiti doesn't come off completely after using the razor blade, use ultra-fine bronze wood with water to gently rub off the remaining paint.
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Pavement
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- Apply graffiti remover (and possibly a gel product).
- Power wash off (soda blasting may also work).
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*It is important to remember that the above methods are guidelines only. The City of Orillia does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Website and is not responsible in any way for damages arising out of the use of removal methods described on this Website.
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Are there businesses that sell paint and/or supplies at discounted rates to individuals wishing to cover up or remove graffiti within the City of Orillia?
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Yes. A discount is provided at the following businesses:
- Housser's Paint & Wallpaper, 87 Colborne Street West (20% off).
- OTD Building Supplies, 1084 Brodie Drive (25% off).
Note: A photograph of the graffiti (physical picture, or picture on a camera or handheld device) must be presented to the business to be eligible for the discount.
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Is there anywhere to obtain paint free of charge?
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Yes, residents are able to pick up free cans of paint during regular hours of operation at the Reuse Depot located at the Waste Diversion Site, 100 Kitchener Street.
For their hours of operation and phone number, ReuseProgram
Note: Reuse Depot is closed during winter months.
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What is an anti-graffiti protective coating?
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An anti-graffiti protective coating is a product (clear or coloured) which can allow future graffiti to be removed easily using a pressure washer and/or water and a soft bristle brush, making it ideal for areas regularly targeted with graffiti.
The coating can be suitable for use over metal, concrete, brick, stone, wood, fiberglass and pre-existing coatings. Some Graffiti Removal Companies will warranty their product for up to five years.
For more information regarding whether this product is suitable for your needs, contact a Graffiti Removal Company. The City of Orillia does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Website and is not responsible in any way for damages arising out of the use of a product described on this Website.
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Who can I contact to remove graffiti from my property?
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If you are unable to remove the graffiti yourself contact a professional. See "Graffiti Removal" in the yellow pages or at yellowpages.ca. |
Can parents be held financially responsible for property damage or destruction intentionally caused by their children who are under 18 year of age?
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Yes. View the Ministry of the Attorney General's Website for further information. |
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Idling
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Does the City have a by-law that prohibits idling?
Yes. The City has a by-law that prohibits the idling of vehicles for more than three minutes, whether the vehicle is located on private or public property. Idling control initiatives have been identified as a way of improving local air quality. In particular, vehicle emission combustion by-products contribute to smog and increased ground level ozone. As well, idling unnecessarily contributes to green house gas emissions. A municipal idling control by-law is a concrete step that has been taken to help reduce these unnecessary emissions.
There are a number of situations where the idling restriction does not apply - including vehicles involved in an emergency activity.
City of Orillia Idling By-law
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Motorized Snowmobiles
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What are the rules regarding snowmobiles?
Snowmobiles are not allowed to operated on any sidewalk, boulevard, park, prohibited trail or highway or on private property (without consent). Snowmobiles are also prohibited from operating between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. On those streets where snowmobiles are permitted, they are only allowed for the purpose of travelling from the operator's residence to an approved trail or a lake and to return from such trail or lake to the operator's residence. The Motorized Snow Vehicles Act prohibits snowmobiles from operating at a greater rate of speed than 20 km/hr in a 50 km/hr zone.
If you have any questions regarding snowmobiles, please contact the Clerk's Department - Legislative Services Division at 705-325-2313.
To report a complaint regarding snowmobiles, please contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122.
City of Orillia Snowmobiling By-law
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Sidewalk Use
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What are the rules regarding the use of vehicles, skateboards, or rollerblades on sidewalks?
The Traffic/Parking By-law 2007-55, as amended, prohibits vehicles from operating on all sidewalks within the City including: bicycles, e-bikes, limited speed motorcycles, mopeds, motor assisted bicycles, pocket bikes, segways, and electric/motorized scooters.
Chapter 650 of the Municipal Code prohibits a person from inline skating or skateboarding on all sidewalks in the downtown area. For further information on the rules respecting inline skating or skateboarding in other areas of the City, please view Chapter 650.
Please note that personal mobility devices (motorized wheelchairs and medical scooters) are permitted on all sidewalks.
If you have any questions or to report a complaint, please contact the Clerk's Department - Legislative Services Division at 705-325-2313.
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Signs
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Does the City have a Sign By-law?
Yes. Most signs require a sign permit prior to being erected.
For sign permit inquiries, please contact 705-329-7258.
To report a complaint regarding signs, please contact the Legislative Services Division at 705-325-2313.
City of Orillia Sign By-law
Are there different sign requirements in the downtown area?
Yes. Signs erected in the established Downtown Sign Permit Area (DSPA) are required to meet a higher set of standards than those outside the DSPA. The reason for these higher standards is to help achieve a high quality and visually consistent downtown area and ultimately give our downtown a true competitive advantage over other municipalities.
Summary of the sign standards in the DSPA
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Snow Complaints
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Is there a by-law prohibiting a person from dumping snow onto my property?
No. This is considered a civil matter and you may wish to seek legal advice.
Can I deposit snow or ice onto City property?
Snow may be deposited onto the City-owned boulevard immediately adjacent to his or her lot. Chapter 658 of the Municipal Code, however, specifically prohibits the depositing of snow or ice at the following locations:
(a) on a roadway or sidewalk;
(b) on a boulevard that is not adjacent to his or her lot, including but not limited to snow pushed or deposited across a street;
(c) on a boulevard that obstructs the line of sight of a driver of a vehicle at an intersection;
(d) on any City-owned or leased property located on a boulevard including signage, benches and garbage or recycling receptacles;
(e) on, or immediately adjacent to, a fire hydrant or in any manner that obstructs access to a fire hydrant;
(f) in such a manner so as to obstruct drainage to any City-owned drain or sewer;
(g) on any other City-owned property including parkland.
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Tents within Parkland and Beach Areas
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What size of tent is not permitted on a beach?
Any tent that is greater than 1.5 metres (5 feet) in height, or occupies a space greater than 4.6 square metres (50 square feet) is not permitted on a beach.
What size of tent is not permitted in a park (excluding a beach area)?
Any tent that occupies a space greater than 9.3 square metres (100 square feet) is not permitted on parkland unless a permit has been issued.
Are there restrictions on when I can erect a tent?
Yes, a tent is not permitted anywhere in a park between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
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