Business Security Enhancement Rebate Program
The City of Kelowna is introducing the Business Security Enhancement Rebate Program in direct response to feedback from the local business community about the need for immediate, practical solutions to growing challenges related to crime and social disorder.
The program will offer financial assistance to businesses to implement security enhancements recommended in a no-cost Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) audit.
The program is now live. Check out the FAQs below to see if you're eligible to apply, and how.
Frequently Asked Questions
The program provides financial support (50% rebate up to $3,000 before tax) per business licence, as well as subject matter expertise to help businesses enhance the security of their properties. The goal is to support crime‑prevention improvements and help revitalize streetscapes.
To be eligible for funding, a business must:
- Operate a ground-oriented, commercial or light industrial business with a focus on the urban centres and core area with an entrance / exit door to the exterior of the building, entered directly from a fronting publicly accessible street, walkway, or open space (i.e., without passing through a shared indoor lobby or corridor).
- Hold a valid City of Kelowna Business Licence
- Be the property owner or tenant(s) with written permission from the landlord
- Have a City of Kelowna Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) report written within the program duration timeline (CPTED request)
- Excluded Businesses: Home based, utilities, education and minor institutional, mobile vendors, vehicle oriented or businesses operating on City owned property
A complete application must include:
- The CPTED report number provided during the CPTED review
- Proof of payment (receipts or invoices)
- Photos of completed work in accordance with CPTED recommendations
- Payment form with forwarding address or instructions (attach AP Form)
Once the application is approved, City Accounts Payable will issue a cheque to the eligible business.
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
The program runs from March 1, 2026 to November 30, 2026, or until funds are fully allocated.
- Total program fund: $200,000
- Rebate: 50% of eligible costs up to $3,000 (before tax) per business licence
- Limit: One application per business licence
Yes. Completed applications are reviewed in order of receipt and funding is allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Examples include:
- Security enhancements to windows, doors, and locks
- Security cameras (minimum 1080p; exterior‑facing)
- Security film, bars, gates, shutters, bollards
- Enhanced security lighting
- Façade improvements that activate public space or support crime‑prevention
- Other improvements recommended in the CPTED report
- Vandalism repairs (e.g., broken windows, graffiti removal)
- Security guards or personnel
- Interior, non-public‑facing improvements
- Monitoring fees or subscriptions
- Items not recommended in CPTED report
- Insurance deductibles
- • Request a no-cost CPTED assessment by clicking the "Request a CPTED audit" button above on this page.
- Complete the recommended improvements.
- Submit your application, receipts, and completion photos.
- Upon approval, the City will issue a cheque through Accounts Payable
Once approved, Accounts Payable typically issues a cheque within approximately two weeks by mail.
Yes, if the improvement requires a permit, it must be obtained before any work begins.
Yes, with written permission from the landlord.
Yes. Reimbursements are only available for improvements that are recommended in the CPTED report.
