Should Alberta Change Which Jobs Teens Can Do Without a Permit?

Official title: Youth employment rules engagement

Closed Regulations & Permits Economy & Jobs Health & Safety
Alberta reviewed its rules about what jobs young workers under 18 can do without needing a special permit. The government proposed a new 'light work list' of approved jobs and asked for public feedback. The consultation closed in July 2019 and feedback is being reviewed.

Why This Matters

Have a teenager looking for their first job? These rules decide what work they can legally do. Parents, employers, and young workers all have a stake in getting the balance right between opportunity and safety.

What Could Change

The 'light work list' determines which jobs teens can take without applying for a permit. Expanding it means more job options for young people. Restricting it means fewer opportunities but potentially stronger safety protections.

Key Issues

  • Which jobs should young workers be able to do without a permit?
  • How do we balance job opportunities for teens with workplace safety?

How to Participate

  1. Review the proposed list of jobs that young employees could do without a permit.
  2. The public input period has closed. Contact lbr.youthreview@gov.ab.ca for questions about the review.

What Happened

The public input period closed on July 13, 2019. Feedback received is currently under review to help determine how changes to the light work list will keep young workers safe.