Start a Business in Vancouver

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

✔ 6 permits⏱ 2-4 weeks💰 CAD $150-$500+ depending on type

Skip the research

Get your full roadmap instantly

Overview

Starting a business in Vancouver requires a Business Licence through the Business Licence Office. Base fee: CAD $150-$500+ depending on type. Baja California borders the US. Maquiladora/IMMEX programs common. Tijuana is a major cross-border commerce hub.

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

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)

Costs

Estimated total: CAD $150-$500+ depending on type depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Business Licence Office

Phone: 604-873-7000

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Vancouver Coastal Health for food permits

⚠ Inter-municipal Business Licence (IMBL) covers multiple Metro Vancouver cities

⚠ Film industry — specific production permits

⚠ Cannabis retail licensing — municipal approval required

⚠ Most expensive commercial real estate in Canada

⚠ Home-based business licence available (Class D)

Choose Your Business Type

Restaurant Food Truck Barber Shop Retail Store Coffee Shop Bar / Nightclub Gym / Fitness Studio Nail Salon Cannabis Dispensary Dog Grooming Bakery Cleaning Service Daycare Center Auto Repair Shop

Get your full permit roadmap

Everything in the right order with links, fees, and timelines.

Get My Roadmap → $29

Read our complete Vancouver business license guide →