Aurora's 2025–2026 Fees and Charges By-law: What Businesses Should Know

The Town of Aurora has adopted a Fees and Charges By-law for 2025–2026 that affects various municipal services businesses commonly interact with. This by-law establishes the fees charged by the municipality for permits, licences, applications, and other services that businesses may need when operating in Aurora.

Understanding how municipal fees work and when they apply can help businesses plan for costs and navigate the regulatory requirements they encounter.

What the Fees and Charges By-law Covers

The Fees and Charges By-law sets the fees for a wide range of municipal services. This includes fees for permits, licences, applications, inspections, and other municipal services that businesses may require. The by-law covers services across different municipal departments, including planning, building, licensing, and other regulatory functions.

These fees are typically reviewed and updated periodically, and the 2025–2026 by-law reflects the current fee structure for municipal services in Aurora.

Why This Matters for Businesses

For businesses operating in Aurora, the Fees and Charges By-law has several practical implications. Understanding when municipal fees apply can help with budgeting considerations, as these costs may be part of starting a business, undertaking renovations, or applying for various permits and licences.

The by-law also provides cost predictability, as businesses can generally determine what fees will apply to specific municipal services. This can be helpful when planning timelines and budgets for projects or business activities that require municipal approvals or services.

Common Situations Where Municipal Fees Arise

Businesses may encounter municipal fees in several common situations. When starting a new business, there may be fees associated with business licences, zoning applications, or other municipal approvals required to operate.

Renovations or construction projects often involve building permits, planning applications, and inspection fees. Businesses that require specific licences to operate—such as food service establishments, retail operations, or professional services—may need to pay licensing fees.

Planning applications, whether for new developments, changes of use, or variances, typically involve municipal fees. Other situations where fees may arise include applications for signs, parking, or other municipal services that businesses may need.

Understanding Municipal Requirements

Municipal fees and charges are part of the broader regulatory framework that businesses operate within. Being aware of when these fees apply and understanding the municipal processes involved can help businesses navigate their obligations more effectively.

If you have questions about how municipal fees or by-laws may affect your business operations in Aurora or the Greater Toronto Area, speaking with a lawyer can help clarify the legal considerations relevant to your specific situation. For businesses dealing with corporate matters, permits, or regulatory compliance, our corporate and commercial law services may be relevant to your needs.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every situation is unique, and the information here may not apply to your specific circumstances. For advice tailored to your situation, consult with a qualified legal professional licensed to practice law in Ontario.