Contractor (Earth-mover) Licensing Program

The Contractor Licensing Program and related certifications allow contractors to carry out high quality work in and adjacent to watercourses, wetlands and buffer zones with benefit of an expedited response time from Environment, Energy and Climate Action. 

Eligible activities include shoreline stabilization, landscaping in a buffer zone, minor bridge repairs. 

Upcoming training sessions

There are currently no training sessions scheduled.

Training courses are offered every four years, however anyone interested in the training can pick up a Contractor Licensing Program Instructional Guide at the 4th Floor Jones Building and arrange to challenge the exam. You must also complete a written exam. A pass mark of 80 per cent is required.  When you have successfully completed the exam, you must apply for an Activity Business License and Activity Certificate(s). Contact department staff for additional details.

What is the benefit of the Contractor Licensing Program?

Earth-moving contractors who complete the Contractor Licensing Program are eligible to apply for an Activity Business License for their company and an Activity Certificate for each of their employees that have completed training. Companies that hold these licences are able to by-pass the regular process of obtaining a Watercourse, Wetland and Buffer Zone Activity Permit when they wish to do the following work:

• shoreline stabilization
• landscaping in a buffer zone
• operation of machinery on a beach or shoreline, and 
• minor bridge repairs

The contractor must, however, register each project with the department. Work may proceed once the department provides an acknowledgement (usually via email) that the registration form has been received. Typically, this acknowledgement is provided within 24 hours.

You can review the Construction Standards for Activity in Watercourses and Wetlands to learn more about this program.

Landowners using a licensed contractor do not have to submit an application for a Watercourse, Wetland and Buffer Zone Activity Permit.

What is the cost?

The cost of an Activity Business License is $200.  There is no HST.

The cost of an Activity Certificate is $200.  There is no HST.

Make cheques payable to the PEI Minister of Finance.

Do I have to complete the Contractor Licensing Program if I am an earth-moving contractor?

No. The Contractor Licensing Program is voluntary.

How long are Activity Business Licenses and Activity Certificates valid?

Activity Business Licenses and Activity Certificates are valid for a maximum of two years from the date of the training course. 

How long will it take to get an Activity Business License or Activity Certificate?

After you have successfully completed a training course and exam, you should allow three weeks to process your application.

Who can I contact for more information?

Joe-Anne Dean
Telephone:  (902) 368-5700
Email: clp@gov.pe.ca