Consumer Services Fees
Background
The Department of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) is implementing fee increases across various regulations beginning April 1, 2025, to keep pace with inflation and reflect the cost of service delivery. These changes align with the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which has risen by 4% since the last fee adjustment in July 2023. The updated fees apply to real estate agents, consumer protection services, business licensing, and fire prevention plan reviews.
Real Estate Agents’ Fees
Under the Real Estate Agents’ Licensing Act, fees for real estate agents and salespersons are increasing modestly. For instance, the fee for obtaining a full-year agent’s licence will rise from $204 to $212, while filing a prospectus will increase from $444 to $461. These adjustments ensure that licensing and compliance processes remain robust and adequately funded.
|
Description |
Current Fee |
Proposed Fee |
Increase |
|
Agent's Licence (after Nov 30) |
$99.00 |
$103.00 |
$4.00 |
|
Agent's Licence (full year) |
$204.00 |
$212.00 |
$8.00 |
|
Renewal of Agent's Licence |
$204.00 |
$212.00 |
$8.00 |
|
Salesperson's Licence (after Nov 30) |
$99.00 |
$103.00 |
$4.00 |
|
Salesperson's Licence (full year) |
$204.00 |
$212.00 |
$8.00 |
|
Renewal of Salesperson's Licence |
$204.00 |
$212.00 |
$8.00 |
|
Filing a Prospectus |
$444.00 |
$461.00 |
$17.00 |
|
Filing an Amendment to a Prospectus |
$123.00 |
$128.00 |
$5.00 |
Vendor and Direct Seller Fees
Fees for vendor and direct seller licences, governed by the Consumer Protection Act, are also being adjusted. Depending on the application period, vendor licence fees will increase by amounts ranging from $3 to $8. Similarly, the fee for a collection agency licence or renewal will increase from $210 to $218. These changes ensure fair trading practices and the continued protection of consumers in the Northwest Territories.
|
Licence Type |
Period |
Current Fee |
Proposed Fee |
Increase |
|
Vendor Licence |
April 1 – June 30 |
$210.00 |
$218.00 |
$8.00 |
|
Vendor Licence |
July 1 – September 30 |
$157.00 |
$164.00 |
$7.00 |
|
Vendor Licence |
October 1 – December 31 |
$105.00 |
$109.00 |
$4.00 |
|
Vendor Licence |
January 1 – March 31 |
$52.00 |
$55.00 |
$3.00 |
|
Direct Seller |
April 1 – June 30 |
$210.00 |
$218.00 |
$8.00 |
|
Collection Agency |
Year-round |
$210.00 |
$218.00 |
$8.00 |
Business Licensing Fees
For businesses operating in the Northwest Territories, the fees for resident and non-resident licences are both increasing from $210 to $218. This modest adjustment reflects inflationary trends and supports MACA’s ability to oversee and manage business licensing effectively.
|
Description |
Current Fee |
Proposed Fee |
Increase |
|
Resident Licence & Renewal |
$210.00 |
$218.00 |
$8.00 |
|
Non-Resident Licence & Renewal |
$210.00 |
$218.00 |
$8.00 |
Fire Prevention Plan Reviews Fees
Fees for reviewing fire prevention plans under the Financial Administration Act will increase from $167 to $173 per hour, a $6 increase. This adjustment reflects the technical expertise and time required for these critical safety reviews.
Why the Adjustments are Necessary
Fee increases support MACA’s delivery of high-quality services while recovering the costs associated with their administration. By aligning fees with inflation, MACA supports the sustainability of its programs and services without overburdening residents or businesses. This approach also allows the department to adapt to economic changes while maintaining fairness and transparency.
MACA remains committed to its mission of fostering strong, resilient communities across the Northwest Territories. These fee adjustments, though modest, are a step toward ensuring the Department can continue to meet its objectives while adapting to the evolving needs of residents and businesses.