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Starting a restaurant in B.C.

Last updated on January 21, 2026

Learn what you need to do to open a restaurant in B.C., from creating your business plan and designing your menu, to securing permits, finding the right location and setting up operations.

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​Choose your restaurant model

Start by researching and deciding what type of restaurant you want to open. Different types of restaurants will have different costs, rules and requirements. Things to consider: 

Business model

Will you start a new restaurant, purchase an existing one or start a franchise business?

Type of service

Will it be full service, limited service or a food truck?

 Then, write a business plan to define your restaurant model and show how it will become profitable. 

Starting a restaurant involves several legal and regulatory steps. Find detailed steps for starting your business in B.C.

Research permitting and licensing requirements

You will also need permits and licences. These can take time and require inspections, so start early. Common requirements include:

  • Health Operating Permit to ensure food safety standards
  • Local government permit and licences for zoning and compliance
  • Liquor licences if serving alcohol
  • Music and entertainment licences for live or recorded music

Find out who issues these permits and licences and how to apply or use BizPaL to find the permits and licences you may need from all levels of government.

Plan your menu

Planning your menu early helps you figure out your business location, space requirements and permitting needs.

Kitchen design

Your health authority must approve your kitchen design to make sure it fits the type of food you plan to serve. They will ask for a copy of your menu when you apply for a Health Operating Permit. Changes to your menu after this approval could cause delays.

Liquor licensing

You may need to include a copy of your menu when you apply for your liquor licence. To obtain a Food-Primary Licence, you must serve a full selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts.

Find a location

Before you buy or sign a lease for your restaurant, it's important to:

  • Contact your local government to discuss zoning restrictions and any renovations that might be needed
  • Have a lease lawyer or legal representative and chartered professional accountant review the conditions of your agreement

Zoning restrictions

Different types of restaurants have different zoning requirements. A space that previously housed a café might not be zoned for a full-service restaurant that serves alcohol. Before you buy or sign a lease:

  • Make sure your type of restaurant is allowed in that location
  • Confirm the zoning with your city's planning office, even if the space was a restaurant before
  • Do not assume the zoning rules will change for your business

When reviewing the zoning of a space, think about:

  • Permitted uses
  • Hours of operation
  • Hours for serving alcohol
  • Outdoor serving or patio areas
  • Washroom facilities
  • Parking

Required renovations

Renovations can be costly and time-consuming. Before you buy or sign a lease, think about any work the space may need. Renovations may be required for many reasons, such as:

  • Bringing your space up to building or electrical code standards
  • Changes to water and sanitary piping
  • Updating heating and cooling systems
  • Installing increased ventilation
  • Kitchen renovations
  • Accessibility updates, such as installing ramps or wider doorways

Ask your local government about:

  • Changes needed to meet safety and building codes
  • The application process and timelines

You will need a floor plan approved by your health authority and your local government before you begin construction.

Employee certification for handling food and liquor

Depending on the type of restaurant you have, your employees may need to have these certifications:

  • FOODSAFE: A food handler training program. When the restaurant owner isn't on site, at least one staff member must have FOODSAFE certification to ensure food safety
  • Serving it Right: B.C.'s responsible sale and service training program for employees who handle liquor

Operations and maintenance

Review the managing and growing a business page for resources to help you manage your finances and stay up to date on your taxes and annual reporting.

Be prepared for inspections

The following inspections may occur on a scheduled or drop-in basis:

  • Environmental health (food safety) inspections
  • Liquor licensing inspections
  • Bylaw inspections
  • Fire safety inspections

Restaurant resources and supports

Support organizations

BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association (BCRFA): Provides resources and support for members through the stages of opening a restaurant business.

Restaurant Canada: Supports the restaurant industry through advocacy, connection and support. Members can access resources, research and events.

go2HR: The human resources and health & safety association for BC’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Guidelines and requirements

Food Premises Guidelines: Read the BC Centre for Disease Control requirements for serving food to the public.

British Columbia Food Safety Laws and Requirements: Learn about food safety laws from the Canadian Institute of Food Safety.

Food Delivery Service Fee Act: Learn how the Act applies to food delivery platforms, restaurants and food delivery drivers.

Single-Use and Plastic Waste Prevention Regulation: Learn about restrictions to single use plastics in B.C. including for food service businesses. 

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.