Launch Calgary Casinos: Start Your Gaming Business Today
This page provides a practical, jargon-free roadmap to opening a Calgary casino under NAICS 713210 (Casinos, excluding casino hotels). You’ll learn the 11 regulatory requirements you must meet, plus the real-world steps from concept to permit readiness. Get a clear overview of the permits you’ll need, the costs to budget for, and the typical timeline to move from idea to opening.
You’ll walk away with a simple action plan: how to prepare applications, what background checks and security plans are common, how to align with Alberta gaming rules, and where to submit each of the 11 requirements. We’ll outline typical upfront costs (licensing fees, facility compliance, staffing and security investments) and a realistic timetable so you know when to expect approvals.
Calgary’s vibrant entertainment scene, strong tourism, and business-friendly climate make it a natural fit for a new casino operation. With a growing demand for curated gaming experiences and a well-supported regulatory environment, Calgary offers a ready customer base and a clear path to compliant growth.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a casino in Calgary is the Alberta Charitable Gaming Licence. This licence is legally required to conduct charitable gaming activities in Alberta, and you cannot operate without it. Because this is non-negotiable, make securing this licence your top priority and confirm it covers the specific games or events you plan to run. Getting this right upfront helps you stay compliant from day one and avoids costly delays later in your startup.
Mandatory operational requirements include health, safety, and permits. You’ll need a City of Calgary Business Licence, and register a trade name if applicable. For employees, obtain WCB Employer Registration for workers’ compensation. You’ll also implement an Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Program and complete FINTRAC Reporting Entity Registration to handle financial transactions properly.
Business Registration & Tax: Set up your core numbers and structure. Register a Business Number (BN) with the federal government, and complete Alberta Corporation Registration or Partnership Registration as needed. If you use a trade name, register it with Alberta. Don’t forget GST/HST Registration and Payroll Deductions Registration to manage tax collection and employee payroll.
Next steps: map out which registrations apply to your plan, gather the required documents, and reach out to the relevant regulators to start the approvals. Start early, set a realistic timeline and budget, and tackle registrations in logical order. With a clear checklist and steady progress, you’ll move from planning to compliant operation more quickly.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a casinos (except casino hotels) in Calgary:
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Alberta Charitable Gaming Licence RequiredGaming operations including casinos, gaming facilities, charitable gaming events (bingos, raffles), and gaming suppliers must be licensed by provincial gaming commissions or alcohol and gaming authorities. Casino and gaming facility licenses require extensive background checks, financial integrity verification, facility security standards, responsible gambling programs, and compliance with gaming regulations. Charitable organizations conducting gaming events (bingo, raffles, casino nights) must obtain gaming licenses, follow proceeds usage requirements, maintain detailed records, and comply with prize limits. Gaming equipment suppliers, manufacturers, and gaming employees also require registration or licensing. License holders must implement anti-money laundering programs, self-exclusion systems, and problem gambling supports. Unlicensed gaming operations are criminal offences. Provincial gaming authorities conduct compliance audits and investigations. Registered charities and non-profits can apply to AGLC for charitable gaming licences including raffles, bingos, and casino events. Proceeds must support charitable purposes.
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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FINTRAC Reporting Entity Registration RequiredBusinesses engaged in financial activities must register with FINTRAC (Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada) as a reporting entity under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. Register with FINTRAC if you are a Money Services Business (MSB) or reporting entity: 1. Visit fintrac-canafe.canada.ca before beginning operations 2. Required for: MSBs, banks, credit unions, insurance, accountants, real estate, casinos 3. Submit registration form via secure Canada Post Connect 4. Need: Business info, criminal record checks (issued within 6 months) 5. Keep registration current and renew as required 6. Changes to business info must be reported within 30 days Recent changes: Title insurers, payment providers, crowdfunding now included
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Calgary. Apply to City of Calgary for Business Licence: 1. Determine business category 2. Complete business licence application 3. Submit required documents (ID, lease, zoning confirmation) 4. Pay application and annual fees 5. Await approval and receive licence Contact City of Calgary Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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Alberta Business Name Registration (Trade Name/Sole Proprietorship) RequiredRegistration of business names (trade names) for sole proprietorships and partnerships with Alberta Corporate Registry (CORES) Register through authorized registry agent. Fee: $10 government + ~$50 service fee. Complete Declaration of Trade Name form (REG3018). Requires government-issued photo ID. Cannot use "limited", "incorporated", or "corporation". Registration does not grant name ownership. Contact: Service Alberta registry agent.
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Alberta WCB Employer Registration ConditionalRequired if you have employees or contractors in Alberta. Workers' Compensation Board employer registration for workplace injury coverage in Alberta Register online at wcb.ab.ca. Most employers required by law. Minimum premium: $200. Premium rate based on industry classification per $100 assessable earnings. File annual return with worker earnings. Some industries exempt but can apply voluntarily. Contact: WCB at 1-866-922-9221.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Program ConditionalRequired for FINTRAC reporting entities: MSBs, banks, insurance, real estate, accountants, casinos. Implementation of a comprehensive AML/ATF compliance program including customer identification, record keeping, suspicious transaction reporting, and staff training. Establish AML/ATF Compliance Program under PCMLTFA: 1. Appoint a Compliance Officer responsible for program 2. Develop written policies and procedures for: - Customer identification and verification (KYC) - Record-keeping (5-year retention) - Suspicious transaction reporting to FINTRAC - Risk assessment and ongoing monitoring 3. Implement staff training program 4. Conduct independent effectiveness review every 2 years 5. Report listed persons/entities property to FINTRAC Details at fintrac-canafe.canada.ca/guidance-directives
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Alberta Corporation Registration ConditionalRequired if incorporating a business in Alberta. Registration to incorporate a business in Alberta. Incorporate through Alberta Corporate Registry: 1. Conduct NUANS name search ($30-40) 2. Prepare Articles of Incorporation 3. Submit through registry agent 4. Pay incorporation fees Government fee: $275 + ~$100 service fee. Annual return required ($50 government fee + ~$25 service fee). Federal incorporation is alternative option.
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Partnership Registration ConditionalRequired for partnerships. Registration for general or limited partnerships in Alberta. Register through Alberta Corporate Registry: 1. Conduct NUANS name search 2. Complete Partnership Registration form 3. Submit through registry agent 4. Pay registration fees General and limited partnerships require registration. Government fee similar to trade name registration. Service fees not regulated - compare agents.
Funding & Grants
Available funding programs that may apply to your casinos (except casino hotels):
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A provincial personal and corporate income tax credit for arm's-length investors who purchase shares in certified eligible NL small businesses. The credit is 35% for businesses operating outside the North East Avalon region and 20% for businesses within the North East Avalon. Maximum annual credit is $50,000 per investor. Carry-forward: …
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The Tourism Relief Fund was a $500-million federal program administered through Canada's regional development agencies and ISED to help the tourism sector recover from the impacts of COVID-19. The fund supported eligible projects involving capital upgrades, product development, and adaptation of tourism offerings to public health measures. The program's two-year …
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The Nova Scotia Creative Industries Fund provides project-based grants of up to $30,000, covering up to 50% of eligible costs, to creative and cultural businesses and non-profit organizations seeking to grow their export markets. The program targets sectors including fashion and design, screen, music, performing arts, production and fine craft, …
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The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) offered repayable interest-free contributions (up to $250,000) for SMEs and non-repayable contributions for not-for-profits in the tourism sector. Approximately 15% of funding was earmarked for Indigenous tourism. Delivered by Canada's regional development agencies. The program ran from 2023–2026 and is now fully subscribed and closed …
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SSDIC operates through three streams: Stream One funds Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies and the Aboriginal Sport Circle; Stream Two supports Indigenous governments and not-for-profit Indigenous organizations; Stream Three focuses on Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ peoples. The 2024-2026 cycle invested $24.2M across 119 Indigenous-led projects. New funding available for 2026-27 …
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