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Permits and licences for businesses in B.C.

Last updated on January 21, 2026

Before opening your business in B.C., make sure you have the right permits and licences. Learn about the different permit and licence types, who provides them and the application process. 

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Application process

Most business permits and licences are issued by the local, provincial or federal government. The application process: 

  • Can take time to complete and get approval
  • May involve one or more inspections

Start the process as early as possible to avoid delays.

Unsure what is required? Use BizPaL to find the permits and licences you may need from all levels of government.

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Local government permits and licences

Reach out to your local government or First Nation to learn about business licences and permits required in your area.

Local governments can:

  • Provide detailed information about permit and licensing requirements for your business
  • Inform you whether they participate in a mobile business licence partnership with other communities
  • Guide you through the application process

Common requirements

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Business licence

Most local governments require a business licence to operate. Submit your Business Licence application early. You may need approval of your floor plans or construction plans by:

  • Health: Approval of building or construction plans by an Environmental Health Officer from your health authority 
  • Fire: Safety approval from your local fire department
  • Local Government: Approval by your local government for maximum occupancy, structural changes or other requirements.
 

Construction permits

Any structural changes to your building will require a Building Permit before you start construction work.

These may include permits for:

  • Building: to add new sections, tear down part of the structure or alter the inside layout
  • Electrical: to install new wiring or circuitry, electrical equipment, lights, etc.
  • Plumbing:  to install, add or alter plumbing, water connections or sewage systems
  • Gas: to install or alter gas appliances

After construction, an inspection is needed to make sure the work complies with your permit and local bylaws. 

 

Other common local government permits and licences for businesses

  • Street Food Vending Permit for mobile food vendors
  • Sidewalk Patio Permit for outdoor seating or service areas
  • Development Permit for site development, external changes to existing buildings or to construct a new building if these works are in a development permit area 
  • Sign Permit for exterior signage
  • Heritage Alteration Permit for work on heritage structures
  • Grease Interceptor Permit for separating fats, oils and grease from wastewater to prevent grease from entering the sewer system
  • Waste Disposal Permit for disposing of certain types of waste beyond regular household garbage

Health Operating Permit

All food service businesses in B.C. must have a valid Health Operating Permit, issued by their regional health authority.

Requirements and process may vary by health authority. Visit your health authority’s website for more information on the application process:

Find your regional health authority using the map of regional Health Authorities.

Liquor licences

If you intend to serve, sell or produce alcohol at your business, you will need to apply for a liquor licence or permit.

Music and entertainment licences

To play recorded music in your establishment, 2 licences are required:

SOCAN

The SOCAN licence ensures that composers and music producers receive appropriate royalties. 

Re:Sound 

The Re:Sound licence pays artists and record labels.

The Province is providing this resource solely for purposes of general guidance with respect to the subject matter involved. As such, this resource is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. 

You should consult with a qualified professional to validate the accuracy and relevancy to your business before making any decisions based on this resource.