The purpose of this Q&A is to educate the public on the town’s updated Refreshment Vehicle Bylaw.
What is the town’s Refreshment Business Licence Bylaw?
The Town of Gravenhurst has a Refreshment Business Licence Bylaw that regulates the operation of refreshment vehicles in the municipality.
The purpose is to ensure that operators are insured, operating safely, and observing public health regulations.
The bylaw applies to anyone who is operating a mobile refreshment vehicle or mobile refreshment stand.
Where can I review the bylaw?
The bylaw is available for review on our website.
Additionally, we have a refreshment vehicle information page on our website that contains a variety of related material.
How do I apply for a licence?
You can apply on our website using our online fillable form.
You can also visit our website and print the form, fill it out, and submit a completed application in-person at the municipal office, 3-5 Pineridge Gate, or you can e-mail your completed application to us at info@gravenhurst.ca. Note our office hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. After hours drop box is available (do not leave cash).
Another option is to visit our website, print the form, fill it out, and mail your completed application to us at: Town of Gravenhurst, 3-5 Pineridge Gate, P1P 1Z3.
If you have an accessibility issue regarding the application process, please contact the Legislative Services Department at 705-687-3412, ext. 8
When do I need to apply for a licence?
If you are operating anywhere in Gravenhurst, you must apply for a licence.
We ask that operators submit their applications five business days before they intend to open.
If you are looking to operate in a municipal park, please fill out an expression of interest form PRIOR to applying for a licence and wait for our economic development staff to contact you. Do not proceed with your application until you hear from our staff.
What documentation do I need to provide when applying?
Please see our checklist.
How long is my licence valid?
Your licence is valid from the date of issue until the end of the calendar year.
You must apply for a new licence each year.
What is the cost of the licence?
The fee is $204, which includes the cost of your fire department inspection.
How can I pay for my licence?
You can pay for your licence during the online application process, or you can pay in-person at the municipal office within 72 hours of submitting your application.
You can pay online using MasterCard or Visa.
You can pay in-person using cash, debit, MasterCard, or Visa.
What should I know about the insurance process?
You will need a minimum of $5 million in general liability insurance.
You will also need to list the Corporation of the Town of Gravenhurst as an additional insured.
Do I need to display my licence?
Yes. Your licence must be displayed with your vehicle or cart.
What role does the Gravenhurst Fire Department play in the application process?
The Gravenhurst Fire Department will conduct a fire inspection of your vehicle, stand, or cart to ensure it meets the Ontario Fire Code and specific fire and electrical elements of the bylaw.
To book your inspection, see our website.
Inspections can be booked Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., subject to staff availability.
To see an example of the emergency plan you will be required to have, see our website. (See the second page of the document.)
What if I have other questions?
Contact the Legislative Services Department at 705-687-3412, ext. 8.
For fire inspection related questions, contact the Gravenhurst Fire Department’s fire prevention officer Kevin McKelvey at 705-687-3414, ext. 2523.