A local business owner is hoping to see changes to Humboldt's Home-Based Business bylaws.

On December 4th, Vicki Washburn, the operator of Studio 3:16 Fashion and Apparel, received a letter from the City of Humboldt. The letter stated she could no longer run the retail portion of her business out of her own home.

The City of Humboldt has specific bylaws on who requires a business license. 

"All business, including home-based businesses, are regulated by The Zoning Bylaw, No. 04/2016.

At this time, businesses that operate from a commercial or industrial location do not require a business license. Home-based businesses and those from outside of the City doing business within the City of Humboldt also require a business license. The City has one business application form for all businesses which require a business license. A business must comply with land-use regulations (prescribed by The Zoning Bylaw), building regulations (prescribed by the National Building Code of Canada), and in some cases provincial licenses."

When asked what happens if someone is in violation of a bylaw this was the City's response.

"The City will contact the person either via telephone, e-mail, or letter indicating non-conformance with a bylaw. In most cases, people are simply unaware that they are in violation and take the necessary steps to comply. If the problem is not addressed within a reasonable timeframe, further action may be taken including the issuance of an order, or fines."

In Washburn's case, she thought everything was set up correctly.

"Once I got the letter from the city, I immediately emailed back asking what do I need to operate. All I got was letters and more bylaws thrown in my face, no problem solving," said Washburn.

Washburn eventually did realize she was working outside the bylaws but was truly upset with how the city handled the problem.

"I'm getting no answers and when I ask questions there is no transparency with the operations of the city."

As a result, the retail portion of Studio 3:16 Fashion and Apparel is clearing out inventory and will cease operation by February 1st.

The resolution for Washburn would be to see policies changed or be enforced fairly throughout the city.

The current bylaws do not allow for a retail store, where shoppers would visit and purchase items, in a residential area.