

Processing of applications
Access to the Business Licence Office is by appointment only. Walk-in service and drop-in appointments are not available.
To help process your applications more quickly, we have moved to a digital approach for applications, enquiries, and payments.
- Submit and renew your business licence online
- Contact us online for customer enquiries
Note Processing times are currently delayed. We will contact you with questions or next steps once we have processed your request.
All businesses in Vancouver require a licence to operate. This ensures that all business locations are safe and meet land-use requirements.
Business owners are required to get a business licence, but not employees.
Steps to applying for a business licence
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Step 1: Follow any specific steps to apply
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Step 2: Check if your business is allowed at your proposed location
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Step 3: Gather required documents
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Step 4: Fill out the application form
Apply only once per business to avoid unnecessary delays.
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Step 5: We review your application
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Step 6: Pay the bill
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Step 7: We issue your licence
Remember to renew it each year by December 31 for the following year.