Trades in Alberta
About Restricted Activities
Who can work in a designated trade?
Trades with Restricted Activities
Most of Alberta's designated trades include restricted activities.
- These are specific tasks and functions that can only be performed by individuals who meet certain requirements.
- A list of restricted activities for each trade can be found in the Trade Profile and in the Designated Trades and Restricted Activities Regulation.
To legally perform restricted activities, you must be either:
- a registered apprentice, or
- a qualified tradesperson.
What does it mean to be a qualified tradesperson?
Compulsory Certification
If the trade's restricted activities require compulsory certification, you must hold either a:
Compulsory Certification Trades List
Optional Certification
If the trade's restricted activities allow for optional certification, your employer determines whether you are qualified.
- You do not need formal certification.
- Your employer must believe that you have the same skills and knowledge as a certified tradesperson.
Trades without Restricted Activities
Some designated trades have no restricted activities, meaning anyone can work within the trades, regardless of registration, experience, or certification.
- A list of these trades can be found here.
Learn More
More information is available in the Restricted Activities Information Sheet.