Business Resources
Business Resources
Explore resources and information to support local businesses in the Town of Aylmer. Whether you are starting a new business, expanding an existing one, or looking for permits, licences, and community connections, this page provides helpful tools and links to support your success.
Business Information
The Town of Aylmer does not require business licences.
To help you get started with your business, you can use BizPaL, a convenient online tool that shows you what permits and licences you may need from the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario, and participating local governments.
Depending on the type of business you are establishing, there may also be requirements from Southwestern Public Health. These are mandatory requirements. Please contact Southwestern Public Health directly for details related to your business type.
Community Improvement Plan (Aylmer)
The Town of Aylmer offers financial incentive programs for identified Community Improvement Project Areas.
Please see below for details.
ElginCentives (Elgin County)
The ElginCentives program offers funding opportunities for private property improvements that contribute to economic development within Elgin County.
This program is currently under review.
Designated Downtown Business Area
Collection of garbage and recycling occurs twice per week to all commercial businesses located within the designated Downtown Business Area.
Each commercial business located within the designated Downtown Business Area is permitted a total of 5 untagged bags two times per week.
Outside the Designated Downtown Business Area
Each commercial business located outside of the designated Downtown Business Area is permitted a total of 9 untagged bags one time per week.
General Information
All additional bags over the untagged limit must be tagged. Bag tags are available for purchase at Town Hall, 46 Talbot Street West.
Recycling bins can be purchased through any local retailer.
Parking in the Town of Aylmer Municipal Lots is complimentary for 2 hours. For street parking limits, please refer to on-street signage.
Parking permits are available for Municipal Lots 1 and 2 (located directly behind Town Hall and the I.D.A. Pharmacy). Please visit Town Hall to purchase a parking permit.
Community Improvement Plan
The Community Improvement Plan (CIP) is a powerful tool which allows funds and policy initiatives toward a specifically defined project area or areas. The intent of the CIP is to encourage the rehabilitation of lands and buildings and/or the stimulation of development. Once implemented, the CIP allows Council to provide grants to assist in the rehabilitation of lands and/or buildings within a defined project area or areas in compliance with the goals and objectives of the Official Plan and Provincial Policy Statement.
The plan identifies three Community Improvement Areas including the Downtown Core, the Former Carnation Site, and the Fairgrounds/Old Arena Site in which programs of conservation, rehabilitation, or transformation may be carried out in accordance with the Planning Act.
General Information
The CIP programs which incentivize the development of new affordable rental units have a specific set of conditions. These conditions help ensure that these units will remain affordable rather than turning over into “unaffordable” market rate housing stock, thereby returning longterm affordable housing benefits to the community. In addition to the conditions outlined in the CIP, the following conditions apply to applicants who apply for incentives related to the provision of affordable housing units:
- With respect to incentives related to the provision of affordable rental housing, in order to receive the benefits eligible applicants will be required to enter into an agreement with the Town made with the following considerations:
- Every development which receives a benefit through the program(s) shall have units that meet the program’s Guideline on Affordable Rental Rates, as amended from time to time;
- Developers will be encouraged to submit applications with at least 20% of units at market value or below;
- The agreement must be registered on title, and the cost of doing so is the applicant’s responsibility or property owner’s responsibility;
- The agreement will be binding on the owner’s heirs, successors and assigns, as well as binding on a transferee if the property changes hands;
- The housing provider must annually provide a statement to the Town of Aylmer Planning staff confirming that each unit remains affordable;
- If the housing provider does not carry out its obligations under the agreement, the housing provider shall pay to the Town the entire amount of benefits conveyed under the agreement, together with any applicable costs and interest; The agreement will contain such other contractual provisions which are required to be inserted based on fundamental contractual drafting principles satisfactory to the Town of Aylmer and,
- Other reasonable requirements and conditions will be included in the agreement on a project-specific basis.
- Each year the applicant is expected to provide unequivocal proof that each rental unit is provided in accordance with the definition of affordable rental unit in order to receive the rebate. This unequivocal proof may take the form of a signed lease agreement showing the name of the lessee and the affordable rental rate, along with copies of cleared cheques from the lessee proving that the rent paid matches the affordable rental rate on the lease. If multiple affordable rental units are approved for the financial incentive, then unequivocal proof must be provided for each unit.
Site Selection Criteria
Community Improvement for Affordable housing upholds three site selection criteria as outlined Section 5.3.4 of the Town of Aylmer Official Plan:
- A portion of the area’s housing stock is in need of rehabilitation, whether interior or exterior;
- That the phasing of improvements is within the financial capability of the Town;
- For any other environmental, social or community economic development reasons, in conformity with the policies of the County of Elgin Official Plan and this Plan;
Notwithstanding the Town-wide designation of a Community Improvement Area for Affordable Housing, all applications must correct zoning for the proposed development in place at the time of application.
Objectives
- Provide a catalyst to bring greater investment in affordable housing to the Town of Aylmer;
- Provide an incentive to new developers to include affordable housing units in developments;
- To address the known shortfall of housing affordability in the Town of Aylmer.
Intent
The intent of the Cash-in-Lieu of Parkland Grant Program is to reduce the fees associated with development, redevelopment, construction, reconstruction or remediation through the alleviation of the costs associated with parkland dedication as required through the Planning Act.
Description
Council may offer assistance to an applicant who undertakes works consistent with the Goals and Objectives of the Community Improvement Plan. For projects approved under the Cash-in-Lieu of Parkland Grant Program, a grant up to 50% of the amount of cash-in-lieu can be made to the applicant following the successful completion of the approved works.
Specific Program Requirements
Applicants eligible for funding under this program shall meet the general program requirements and the following specific program requirements, subject to the available funding.
a) The grant can be made to property owners who are redeveloping lands in the project areas described in the Project Area Objectives (Section 3.0), consistent with the Goals of the Plan (Section 2.0).
b) The Cash-in-Lieu of Parkland Grant can equal up to 50% of the fees paid for cash-in-lieu of parkland.
c) The Town must be satisfied that sufficient parkland exists or will exist to serve the subject area prior to determining whether cash-in-lieu of parkland is acceptable, at the Town’s discretion.
d) Full details regarding the terms and conditions of the grant are detailed in Section 6.1.1. of the Community Improvement Plan.
Intent
The intent of the Development Charges Grant Program is to promote development within the Community Improvement Project Areas through the reduction of development charges costs, a financial barrier that can often inhibit development.
Description
Council may offer assistance to an applicant who undertakes works consistent with the Goals and Objectives of the Community Improvement Plan. For projects approved under the Development Charges Grant Program, a grant up to 50% of the sum of the fees paid under the Town of Aylmer’s Residential Development Charges By-law may be granted to the applicant upon successful completion of the approved works.
Specific Program Requirements
Applicants eligible for funding under this program shall meet the general program requirements and the following specific program requirements, subject to the availability of funding.
a) The Development Charge Grant can equal up to 50% of the fees paid under the Town of Aylmer’s Residential Development Charges By-law.
b) Applications will be considered and approved on a ‘first-come-first-served’ basis.
c) Grants can be made to property owners who are redeveloping lands in compliance with the goals and objectives as described in Sections 2.0 and 3.0 of the CIP.
d) Full details regarding the terms and conditions of the grant are detailed in Section 6.1.1 of this Community Improvement Plan.
e) Affordable Housing Developments can apply for DC grants proportional to the percentage of affordable units provided in the development.
f) Affordable Housing Developments are exempt from the 50% cap upon grant funding.
Intent
The intent of the Façade Improvement Program is to encourage building owners, through grants, to improve their façade to contribute to the streetscape, thereby improving the overall appearance of the Downtown Project Area.
Description
Council may offer assistance to an applicant who undertakes façade improvements to commercial buildings within the Downtown Project Area consistent with the Goals and Objectives of the Community Improvement Plan, and design guidelines established by the Town (if applicable). The grant will be provided to the applicant upon successful completion of the works approved by the Town with the value of the grant to be determined by the Town.
Specific Program Requirements
Applicants eligible for funding under this program shall meet the general program requirements and the following specific program requirements, subject to the availability of funding.
a) Properties in the Downtown Project Area are eligible for a grant under the Façade Improvement Program.
b) All façade improvements must conform to design guidelines (if applicable).
c) Rear and/or side façade improvements are eligible if the public view of the façade(s) is significant as determined by the Town.
d) Applications will be considered and approved on a ‘first-come-first-served’ basis. The Town may, due to program demand, fund an application over more than one year.
e) In their application, the applicant must demonstrate that the proposed façade improvement will improve the streetscape and will be performed in a competent manner.
f) Grants are available for 50% of the construction costs to a maximum grant of $5,000 per applicant which can be used to offset design and other professional costs and construction costs.
g) The Town shall set maximum total annual budget for grants under this program as per Section 6.5 of this CIP.
Intent
The intent of the Planning Application and Building Permit Fees Grant Program is to promote the improvement, development, redevelopment and/or preservation of the Town’s Community Improvement Project Areas by providing a financial incentive that negates the cost of the Town’s Planning and Building Fees, which are permitted through Section 69 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, and Section 7 of the Building Code Act, 1992.
Description
Council may offer assistance for works that are consistent with the Goals and Objectives of the Community Improvement Plan. The Planning Application and Building Permit Fees Grant Program will provide a grant up to 50% of the fee paid on applications to the Town. The Grant will be provided upon successful completion of the approved works.
Specific Program Requirements
Applicants eligible for funding under this program shall meet the general program requirements and the following specific program requirements, subject to the available of funding.
a) The Planning Application and Building Permit Fees Grant can equal up to 50% of the planning and building permit fees paid on applications to the Town for the project.
b) Grants shall be made to property owners who are improving buildings or redeveloping lands in the project areas in compliance with the goals and objectives as described in Sections 2.0 and 3.0 of the Plan.
c) Eligible fees for grants are application fees associated with: Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-Law Amendment, Minor Variance, Site Plan Application, Demolition Permit, and Building Permit.
d) Full details regarding the terms and conditions of the grant are detailed in Section 6.1.1 of this Community Improvement Plan.
e) Affordable Housing Developments can apply for can apply for grants proportional to the percentage of affordable units provided in the development.
f) Affordable Housing Developments are exempt from the 50% cap upon grant funding.
Intent
The intent of the Property Tax Increment Equivalent Grant Program is to promote the goals and objectives of the Community Improvement Plan by providing financial incentive for the redevelopment of lands or buildings within the Community Improvement Project Area. Incentive will be provided through the reduction of the increase in the municipal portion of property taxes resulting from the reassessment of the property due to its redevelopment.
Description
Council may offer assistance to any applicant who improves existing buildings or redevelops land or buildings in a manner consistent with the Goals and Objectives of the Community Improvement Plan. The program offers an incremental tax based equivalent grant which is equivalent of up to 50% of the increase in the municipal portion of the property taxes for a period of up to 5 years of eligible projects that create an increase in assessment and therefore an increase in property taxes. The grant is offered to the applicant upon successful completion of the works as approved by the Town.
Specific Program Requirements
Applicants eligible for funding under this program shall meet the general program requirements and the following specific program requirements, subject to the availability of funding.
a) Grants are available in a dimishing amount starting up to the equivalent of 50% of the increase in the municipal portion of the property tax resulting from the reassessment of the property due to its redevelopment. The grant shall begin following project completion at a percentage of up to 50% of the increase of in the municipal portion of property taxes and diminish each year over 5 years as demonstrated in the table below.
b) The tax reduction resulting from the physical improvement of a building or structure in the Community Improvement Areas will be determined by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) and will apply to the first billing following reassessment of the property.
c) The tax grant will be based solely on the reassessment resulting from improvements, and will not apply to the provincial reassessment for all residences. MPAC will be contacted for information pertaining to the increased portion of the property taxes due to improvements separate from the annual reassessment.
d) The timing of relief will depend on when MPAC informs the Town of reassessment.
e) The grant will be paid annually once the eligible project is complete as per Section 6.1.1 of this Community Improvement Plan.
f) The pre-project Municipal taxes will be determined before project commencement when the application is approved.
g) Each year, the Town shall pay the grant within 20 working days of the property owner paying their property taxes in full.
h) The grant will be recalculated every year based on post-project Municipal taxes in that year.
i) Grant payments will cease when the total grant along with all other grants provided equals the cost of rehabilitating the lands and buildings, or after 5 years, whichever comes first.
Elgincentives Community Improvement Project
This program is currently under review.
Want to expand your business or give your building a much-needed facelift? You could be eligible to receive financial assistance for converting converting vacant space into new commercial space, upgrading your façade, signage and property and more!
Pre-consultation for projects is required. If you are an Elgin County business owner and have a project you would like to review for possible financial support, please contact the office at 519-631-1460, ext. 133 or [email protected].
Business Supports
The Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce is a forum for networking, political policy change, a unified voice and a promotional tool to attract people to the area. Monthly events organized by the Chamber are helpful to meet local business owners and promote local businesses.
Elgin County Economic Development, in partnership with the Elgin Business Resource Centre (EBRC) and the Elgin–St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC), has launched the Elgin County Business Guide, a new online resource designed to support entrepreneurs and businesses at every stage of their journey.
Whether someone is starting a new venture, expanding an existing business, or considering relocating to the region, the guide provides clear, practical information to help navigate the process of doing business in Elgin County.
Developed with input from the local business community, the guide brings together key information and resources in one easy-to-use location. It is written in plain language and designed to help business owners understand requirements, access supports, and plan for long-term success.
The Elgin County Business Guide includes information on:
- Business planning tools
- Zoning and land use considerations
- Permits and licensing requirements
- Financial programs and funding supports
- Hiring resources and workforce tools
- Growth strategies
- Risk management and succession planning
By bringing together these resources in a single guide, Elgin County Economic Development and its partners aim to make it easier for entrepreneurs and business owners to access the information they need to invest, build, and grow in the region.
The guide reflects the strong collaboration between local economic development organizations and municipalities across Elgin County, all working to support a thriving local business community.
The Elgin Business Resource Centre provides business support services through one-on-one counselling, networking, workshops and self-employment training programs.
New and existing businesses in Aylmer and surrounding area can take advantage of the Elgin Business Resource Centre that provides services such as:
- Business loans
- Business Counselling
- Self-Employment Training
- Office Space
- Meeting Room Rental
- Networking Events
Information for entrepreneurs who want to start and run a business in Ontario. Learn how to register your business, apply for funding and tax credits, and get free, personalized help to start your business.
A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a partnership between local businesses and the municipality that works to support and promote a commercial area.
BIAs help strengthen downtowns and business districts through beautification projects, events, marketing initiatives, advocacy, and community engagement. Their goal is to create a vibrant, welcoming area that attracts visitors, supports local businesses, and enhances the overall community experience.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or large enterprise, Elgin County offers the support and partnerships you need to succeed.
The Elgin County Economic Development team has strong connections across the region. The team will connect you to the supports you need, provide personal introductions, and help you access the right resources for your business.
Grants, loans, private and public sector financing and leveraging personal assets.
The Elgin-St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) offers small business support including consultations, information sessions, business plan guidance, access to small business network events, grant programs, and more. The SBEC operates as part of the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation with the support of Elgin County Economic Development and the Province of Ontario.
Tariffs & Our Community
Tariffs, or taxes imposed on imported goods, can have a significant impact on local businesses and consumers. As a small town in Southwestern Ontario, Aylmer is not immune to these challenges.
Local businesses that rely on imported materials or products may face increased costs, which can affect their pricing and profitability. Businesses competing with imported goods might see a temporary advantage, but the overall economic impact may vary.
Industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and retail are most vulnerable to tariffs due to their reliance on imported materials or competition with foreign products.
Businesses affected by tariffs may need additional support to navigate these challenges.