Utility Newsletter Insert - December 2025

Understanding Licenses: Where does the revenue from pet and business licenses go?

The Town of Olds is committed to providing clear and transparent information about the services we deliver. Revenue from pet and business licences helps fund everyday community services in Olds. Pet licence fees support animal control, park upkeep, and public safety, while business licence revenues help fund economic development, permitting, and local business support programs. These fees don’t cover full program costs but help reduce pressure on property taxes and keep essential services running smoothly.

Pet Licenses

Pet licensing fees help keep our community safe, clean, and pet-friendly. In Olds, these fees generate approximately $25,000 in revenue and directly support:

• Dog Park Maintenance: Town staff maintain the dog park west of town, including mowing, garbage removal, tree care, snow removal, and parking lot maintenance. A year-round porta-potty is also provided. Annual maintenance costs approximately $10,000–$13,000. In 2026, the Town has budgeted an additional $24,000 for engineering services to design an erosion control solution for the west bank of the Town’s stormwater pond. In 2027, we hope to begin construction on this project.
• Dog Waste Bags: After reducing the amount of bag dispensers, the Town currently spends about $13,000 on stocking and refilling these dispensers throughout the community. Pet owners are responsible for their dog’s waste and for buying their own bags. These receptacles are for use when a pet owner forgets their bags at home.
• Municipal Enforcement: Approximately 200 hours of officer time spent responding to animal-related calls, complaints, and lost pets. Additional costs are incurred when pet owners cannot be located and boarding is required.

As evidenced above, the Town spends significantly more on animal-related services than it collects in revenue, but the fees help reduce how much must be covered by property taxes.

Pet License Renewal begins January 2, 2026, and can be done online or in-person at the Olds Municipal Centre.

Business Licenses

Any business operating in Olds—whether a storefront, contractor, home-based business, or mobile service—must hold a valid business licence. These fees generate approximately $107,000 in annual revenue and help fund the services that support our local economy, including:

• Economic Development:
  • Programs that promote local shopping and increase customer traffic.
  • One-on-one support for business owners (grants, data, marketing advice).
  • Investment attraction efforts that bring new employers and development to Olds.
  • Business retention work, including surveys and outreach to understand needs.
  • Workforce development initiatives, such as the Rural Renewal Stream.
  • Regional partnerships that expand economic opportunities for local companies.

• Planning & Development:
  • Ensuring buildings and operations meet safety, fire, and health standards.
  • Updating bylaws and regulations that support safe, thriving commercial areas.
  • Coordinating inspections and enforcement to maintain fair, safe operations.

Included with business licences, is the Regional Business Support Network (RBSN) and a comprehensive support package valued at $6,000 to elevate business visibility and success.

• Business Consulting: Customized advice to overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
• Sourcing Grants: Guidance to help you find and access funding opportunities.
• Marketing and Sales Strategies: Expert tools to elevate your marketing efforts and boost sales.
• Market Research: Insights and data to guide your business decisions.
• Workshops and Training: Skill-building programs on key business topics.
• Funding Navigation: Assistance in securing the financial resources you need to grow.
• Succession Planning: Support to prepare for a smooth business transition.

Contact Michelle McFadden – Business Development Advisor to learn more. mmcfadden@rbsn.ca

Business License Renewal begins January 2, 2026, and will be a fully online process this year. Stayed tuned for more details.