The Retail Business Holidays Act determines which retail stores may remain open on statutory holidays, which include:
There are some exceptions, depending on the type of retail store, what the store sells, its size, the number of employees normally working, as well as other criteria.
Some stores and some geographical locations have a tourism exemption by-law. These by-laws typically apply to only a few of the statutory holidays listed above.
To determine if your store is eligible to open on holidays, have your legal counsel review the retail information package, as well as the provincial legislation.
We are unable to offer legal advice.
Your store may be granted a tourism exemption by-law by applying through the Regional Clerk's office.
Step 1: Contact the Regional Clerk before applying for a tourism exemption.
Step 2: Download and complete the by-law and tourism exemption application .
There is a non-refundable $847.50 fee for making an application.
Provincial Legislation
Proclamations of Holidays Not Listed in the Act