Relocating a Business
Prince Edward County is growing - and we'd love you to be part of it!
The County is an agricultural region and a thriving tourist destination, with beaches, wineries, arts and culture and a sophisticated food and beverage scene. The community is full of entrepreneurs, and residents who are proud to support local. With several large-scale housing development projects in the pipeline, The County’s population is expected to double in the next decade, presenting a wealth of new opportunities.
Thinking about relocating your business to Prince Edward County? Here are some factors to consider:
- Market Access – Prince Edward County is conveniently located between Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. Its economy is primarily driven by agriculture and tourism, with opportunities in the healthcare and wellness sectors.
- Costs & Taxes – Commercial tax rates are comparatively low in Prince Edward County.
General Municipal Tax Rate Commercial Occupied 0.01176699 Small Scale Commercial on Farm 0.00294175 Industrial Occupied 0.01469684 Small Scale Industrial on Farm 0.00367421 Workforce – Loyalist College, located just across the bridge, offers post-secondary and postgraduate programs in a wide variety of sectors, including Culinary, Skilled Trades and Health & Human Sciences. Their Applied Science lab has also helped several County and regional business develop and improve projects. Like many places, The County currently has a housing crunch. Plans are underway to develop affordable housing, and construction is ongoing on several large subdivision projects in Picton and Wellington. However, it’s important to consider your staffing needs and how housing availability will affect your operation.
Infrastructure – As part of efforts to expand rural and remote access to quality, reliable broadband services, Rogers is currently installing fibre optic cable throughout Prince Edward County, with an aim to completing the project by 2025. Learn more about this project here.
Competitive Landscape – Prince Edward County is actively recruiting health care workers, including doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, aides and personal support workers. To determine if a rural environment like Prince Edward County is right for your business, please come for a visit and take the time to understand the market and how your business might fit into the local business ecosystem.
Quality of Life for Employees – Prince Edward County is a mix of rural charm and urban sophistication, with a thriving cultural scene, food and beverage options and a wealth of opportunity for year-round outdoor fun. Learn more in our 25 Things to Know about Prince Edward County guide.
Municipal regulations – Please ensure your business is compliant with your zoning by viewing the municipality’s interactive GIS Zoning map here. Before undertaking any renovations, additions or commissioning signs, contact the Building Department via building@pecounty.on.ca or 613.476.2148. ext. 2040. to confirm if any permits or inspections are required.
If you’re planning to relocate your business in downtown Picton, please read about the Picton Heritage Conservation District.
If you’re intending to relocate your business in your home, please read sections on Home Businesses in the Zoning By-law or download a Guide to Home-Based Business here.
Please note that licenses are required to operate:
- Short Term Accommodations
- Taxis
- Mobile Food Establishments (Food Trucks) — Please contact the By-law Enforcement Officers at bylaw@pecounty.on.ca to obtain a copy of the application form.
Wanting to discuss your relocation plans with Economic Development staff? Contact Karen Palmer at kpalmer@pecounty.on.ca or 613-242-6476.