Business Licensing And Permits In British Columbia: What You Need To Know
Setting up a new business in British Columbia (BC) can be thrilling. However, irrespective of the scale at which you want to operate, you will need to navigate administrative and legal frameworks to operate your venture smoothly.
If you are planning to start a business in BC, you should be familiar with its business licensing rules and permits. Different businesses need to follow different regulations throughout their journeys. Always work with a trusted business incorporation lawyer in Surrey, Vancouver, or any BC region your business belongs to.
Before you go ahead and set up your business, let us explore the basics of business licensing and permits in BC.
Why Do You Need A Business License In BC?
A business license is the government’s official permission that allows you to set up and run a specific business in BC. You will need to ensure that your organization complies with all applicable regulations like health, safety, zoning, and building codes.
Here are some of the most important reasons why you need a business license in BC:
Ensuring Legal Compliance
Setting up and running a business without a valid license is illegal. Doing so will lead to hefty fines and even complete closure of your venture.
Maintaining Legitimacy
Businesses are legal entities. Complying with business license requirements in BC will maintain your organization’s legitimacy.
Building Trust
Suppliers, customers, shareholders, and all other stakeholders will work with/in your business only if it is licensed properly.
Zoning And Land Use
Specific business licenses ensure that the location where you set up your business is suitable for commercial properties.
Common Business Licenses And Permits In BC
While you can consult your corporate lawyer to know the precise licensing details based on your venture, here are the most common business licenses and permits in BC:
Municipal Business License
Almost any business set up in BC requires a municipal license. This applies to businesses of all scales, including mobile businesses, physical storefronts, or home-based ventures.
Zoning Approval
You will need this license to ensure compliance with the zoning laws of your region. Before you set up your business, municipalities will conduct checks to confirm that it meets all zoning requirements. They will then issue your business its license.
Health Permits
You will need these permits if your business is related to your customers’ health. This is applicable for ventures dealing in food, pharmaceuticals, personal care (spa, salon, etc.), and more. Regional health authorities will conduct thorough checks before giving you these permits.
Liquor License
This license is compulsory for businesses selling alcohol. This is a strictly regulated license and may involve tight scrutiny. It is issued by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB).
Special Use Permits
These permits depend on the nature of specific businesses. You can get one of them if your business involves bed and breakfast facilities, daycare services, tattoo services, massage clinics, etc. Each of these services requires a unique license, allowing the business to perform them.
How To Apply For A Business License In BC?
Every entrepreneur needs to follow a systematic procedure to apply for a business license in BC. While the specific process depends on the nature of your business and the license it needs, it is always advisable to seek legal help.
Corporate lawyers understand all applicable licenses and permits you may need to set up a business in BC. Consult a reliable legal professional to make your journey easier and quicker. Your corporate lawyer will also prevent you from making mistakes or impulsive decisions along the way.
Here are the basic steps involved in applying for a business license in British Columbia:
Register Your Business Name
Start by registering your business name with the BC Registry Services. You can use BC Services or OneStop BC to complete your registration online.
Inspect Zoning And Land Use
You should now consult the planning department of the location where you want to set up your business. You may also go check the online zoning map of the region to ensure that your proposed business activities are allowed.
Fill The Application Form
You can finally fill out the business license application form, depending on the license you need. In most cases, you will need a description of your business activities, business name, address, ownership details, and application fees. Your corporate lawyer should guide you through this step.
Schedule Inspections (If Needed)
If your business needs inspections regarding healthcare, fire safety, etc., you can schedule them at this stage. This further safeguards your venture and ensures a smooth run.
Pay The Licensing Fees
Once you have filed your application and all inspections are conducted, you can pay the licensing fees. The amount differs according to the nature of your business and its location. For example, getting a home-based business license in Surrey can cost you around $85/year. On the other hand, setting up a restaurant in Vancouver may cost you around $200 to $500 per year (based on its capacity).
Renew Your License
Do not forget to renew your business license every year to maintain its validity. Your corporate lawyer will remind you in advance to keep you prepared.
What If You Do Not Get A Business Licence In BC?
Setting up and running a legitimate business in BC without a license can have the following consequences:
- Heavy fines of up to $1,000
- Orders to close your business immediately
- Insurance claims denial
- Reputational damage
- Legal action
- Permanent industry ban
The Final Word
Setting up a business in BC is complete only when you obtain the relevant license and permit. These permissions authorize you to run your business without any hurdles. Work with an experienced corporate lawyer to set up your venture and receive the necessary licenses. Legal professionals best understand the licensing procedures and help their clients set up their ventures seamlessly. Seeking legal help relieves you from the hassles of legalities and lets you focus on growing your new venture in BC.