A Guide for businesses
within the City
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The City requires business licenses
for all businesses conducting business within City limits.
When to apply
A business license is required for every person proposing to carry on or
carrying on any trade, business, profession, occupation or calling
within the City’s boundary. This includes home occupations and tradesman
coming into the City to perform work.
Business licenses are not required for
non-resident businesses exempted in the Local Government Act, real
estate agents exempt under the Real Estate Act, and charitable
performances, concerts, exhibitions or entertainment. If you think you
are exempt, it is best to check with the Planning Department before you
start.
What to do before you apply
A business license will not be issued for an illegal business or for a
business that does not comply with the Zoning requirements. When
starting a new business, the building must comply with the B.C. Building
Code and Fire Codes. You should ensure that it does before signing a
lease or applying for a business license.
What you need to submit an
application
You will need to fill out the Business License application which is
available on the City’s website or in the Planning Department.
If you do not own the building where
you will be conducting your business (ex: you rent a space in a
commercial building or rent your home), the registered owner of the
property will need to sign your application. The City cannot issue a
business license without the consent of the property owner.
You will also need to pay the
appropriate fee. As the fees are based on the type of business you will
conduct, please ask Staff for the appropriate fee amount.
What happens to your
application
If you have a complete application, Staff will be able to process your
application generally within 1-2 working days. Staff will prepare your
business license after you submit your application. An inspection of the
proposed business may be required. Once the Licensing Inspector approves
the license, it will then be ready to be issued.
What you do after you get your
license
You are required to post your
business license in a visible location at your place of business. Each
calendar year, you are required to renew your business license. The City
will send you a reminder in December for this requirement. You must keep
the City updated on any changes to your business including address
changes, name changes, additional business being conducted or
cancellation.
What kind of business you can have out
of your home
Any legal business that meets all of the criteria below can be a home
occupation.
- Located in a
single family residential zone.
- All employees are
residents of that home.
- No structural
alterations to the dwelling.
- No exterior
indication that there is a home occupation (except permitted sign),
including outdoor storage.
- No noise,
vibration, smoke, dust, odour, litter or heat except that normally
associated with a dwelling.
- No fire hazards,
electrical interference or traffic congestion.
- No manufacturing,
welding or other light industrial uses.
- No mechanical
equipment except ordinary domestic or recreational equipment or
physician or dentist equipment.
- Only a 0.3 square
metre (3 square feet) sign with the owner’s name and occupation is
permitted (it can be illuminated but not flashing). No other signs
or ads are allowed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How
long will it take to process my application?
If your application is complete, we can generally process your
application within 1-2 working days. The Licensing Inspector needs to
approve all business licenses.
How long is
this permit valid for?
A business license is valid for up to one year. All businesses will be
required to renew their license at the beginning of the calendar year.
If I apply
mid-year, what will I be charged?
The fee is pro-rated three times a year at 75%, 50% and 25% of the
original fee.
Why do I need
the property owner to sign my application?
If you are renting or otherwise do not own the building or place you are
conducting business, the property owner needs to authorize your business
on his property.
This publication is
intended to provide general information only. It is not intended to
be used as an official interpretation of the various codes and
regulations in effect.
Updated January 2007
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