Start a Business in Quebec City

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 6 permits⏱ 3-6 weeks💰 $50–$300

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Overview

Starting a business in Quebec City requires a Permis d affaires through the Service de la planification. Base fee: $50–$300. French is official language — all business must operate in French (Bill 96). QST separate from GST. NEQ (Numéro d entreprise du Québec) required. MAPAQ handles food permits.

Required Permits

✓CRA Business Number (federal, free)
✓Provincial business registration (varies by province)
✓Municipal business licence
✓Zoning approval (if applicable)
✓Health inspection (food businesses)
✓Fire inspection (some cities)

Step-by-Step Process

1

CRA Business Number (federal, free)

2

Provincial business registration (varies by province)

3

Municipal business licence

4

Zoning approval (if applicable)

5

Health inspection (food businesses)

6

Fire inspection (some cities)

Costs

Estimated total: $50–$300 depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Service de la planification

Phone: 311 / 418-641-6411

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Provincial capital
⚠ MAPAQ for food permits
⚠ Old Quebec UNESCO World Heritage — strict heritage overlay
⚠ Must operate in French (Bill 96)
⚠ Tourism-heavy — cruise ship and historic site businesses

Choose Your Business Type

RestaurantFood TruckBarber ShopRetail StoreCoffee ShopBar / NightclubGym / Fitness StudioNail SalonCannabis DispensaryDog GroomingBakeryCleaning ServiceDaycare CenterAuto Repair Shop

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