Legal Requirements: Checklist for Starting Your Business

Make Sure You Have a Business Licence to Operate

Most municipalities in British Columbia require that you register for a business licence, which gives you permission to operate your business on your premises (whether at your home or in a commercial space) within that municipality.

In some instances, you may be required to obtain a licence in municipalities where you do not maintain premises, but do carry on business.

Contact your local city hall, as well as each community in which you’re doing business, to see which permits (including mobile business licences), might be required for your type of business.

If your business is located in an incorporated municipality (city, town, village, or district), obtain a business licence from the municipal business licence office.

Please note that additional regulations from federal, provincial, and/or municipal governments might apply to your particular business and that you should consult the appropriate authority for more information. 

Refer to our Municipal & Registration Contacts List for city hall license offices in the Lower Mainland, as well as contacts for the Corporate Registry.

Consider Registering for EI Special Benefits for Self-Employed People

Under the new Fairness for the Self-Employed Act, you can now choose to register for the Employment Insurance Special Benefits for Self-Employed People.

The four types of special benefits are:

• Maternity benefits
• Parental benefits
• Sickness benefits
• Compassionate care benefits

If you register for this initiative, you will be required to pay EI premiums on your self-employment income, and you will have to wait 12 months before applying for benefits.

For more information and to register, visit the Service Canada website or call the EI Telephone Information Service at 1-800-206-7218.