Business owners and operators in Swift Current have until the end of the month to renew business licenses without penalty.

Businesses renewing their licenses after March 31st will be subject to a penalty of the cost of a license. The cost of the license for Swift Current businesses is $100, and the cost for out-of-town businesses is $200. Any businesses operating without a valid business license after the renewal deadline will receive a Bylaw Violation Notice.

As some businesses operating in Swift Current are not in operation year-round, proration of the cost to renew or apply for a business license can occur. Jackie Schlamp, Bylaw Compliance and Licensing Official with the City of Swift Current, explains the policy in place for those businesses.

"One thing I might add is that we're aware we have seasonal businesses. Those business licenses are prorated after July 1st. So from July to December, any business license is prorated for the duration of the year to make accomodations for businesses that aren't operating in the full 12-month period," she said.

The City of Swift Current licenses and regulates businesses under the Licensing Bylaw NO. 2 - 1997. This bylaw ensures business owners and operators obtain any and all necessary information and approvals prior to the commencement of the business.

Schlamp encourages those who would like more information to contact her at the City's Licensing Department at (306) 778-2714.