Industry Regulations: Understanding New Requirements

Regulations Change as Your Business Evolves
As you grow and expand your business, you’ll likely need to understand and comply with additional regulations that you might have not encountered during start-up. Here you'll find information on the most common ways businesses evolve and what resources are available to help you plan your growth.
When it’s Time to Hire Help
If your business is hiring employees for the first time, consult the many fact sheets and guides for new employers available on the B.C. Employment Standards Branch website.
New Products, New Services—New Regulations
If you’re planning to add to your product line, or expand your service offering, be sure to review your permits and licences. You might need to upgrade existing permits or licences, or obtain new ones altogether.
Your business could even be subject to zoning restrictions. Visit BizPal and Small Business BC’s Industry Matrix to see what regulations apply to the new products and services you’re selling. And check with your municipality directly to make sure you’re in compliance with their regulations and bylaws.
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As You Enter New Territory, Check if New Regulations Apply
Check BizPal. If you expand into new lines of business, search for your new industry or business at BizPal to see what regulations might apply.
Contact city hall. If you set up a new location in a different municipality, be sure to check with the local city hall regarding any applicable licenses, bylaws, and permits required. If you have a mobile business, enquire about a mobile business license that covers multiple municipalities. If you are expanding into new lines of business, check with your local city hall to see if you need any additional permits or licenses.
Do further research. Contact industry associations or others in your industry to see if there are any industry-specific regulations, either existing or pending, that may be applicable to your growing business.
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