How to Get a Business Licence in Surrey, Canada (2026)
The Quick Version
Starting a business in Surrey requires registration at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels. The primary municipal requirement is a Business Licence, issued by the Business Licence Office. Requirements vary significantly depending on your business type and whether you're operating from a commercial location or from home.
Contact the Business Licence Office at 604-591-4011 for current requirements. More information: surrey.ca/business/business-licences.
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What Makes Surrey Different
Surrey has several characteristics that affect the licensing process:
- Fraser Health Authority for food permits
- Largest city by area in Metro Vancouver
- IMBL may apply
- Fast-growing — major development
The Registration Stack
Federal: Business Number (BN) from CRA, GST/HST registration if revenue exceeds $30,000.
Provincial: Business name registration and any required professional licences.
Municipal (Surrey): Business Licence from the Business Licence Office. Phone: 604-591-4011.
How Long Does It Take?
Most businesses in Surrey can be fully licensed and operational within 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the business type. Simple home-based businesses can often complete the process in 2 to 4 weeks, while restaurants, bars, and businesses requiring inspections typically take 8 to 12 weeks.
The dependency chain matters — some permits can't be applied for until others are in place. Getting the order wrong means delays and wasted time.
Don't Guess — Get Your Roadmap
Every business type has different requirements, and Surrey has its own quirks that generic state guides miss. PermitBoard analyzes your specific business type against Surrey's actual requirements and gives you a step-by-step plan with fees, timelines, and direct links to every form.