Business Owners
Welcome to the Business Owners website. This page is intended to assist you with zoning, development, building and other approvals, which are required to obtain a Business Licence. We also provide you with information and consultation on By-Laws, plans, processes, and timing. Before you sign the lease, check to make sure that the Zoning allows your business to occupy the space. You may either use VanMap, view the Zoning Map 
(1.42mb) or visit us in person:
Enquiry Centre
East Wing, 2nd Floor
2675 Yukon Street (11th and Yukon)Phone: 604.873.7613 / 7611
Applying for a Business Licence
Business Licences are required to
carry on business in the City of Vancouver.
Applications are made in person with proper picture identification of business owners at the Licence Office, Second Floor, East Wing, City Hall, where applicants are required to describe the business, give the property address of the proposed business and pay the appropriate fees as set out in the current Licence By-Law No. 4450 (309kb).
Things to Bring
- The address of the building you want to purchase/lease and the specific floor and unit number.
- Picture I.D.
- The appropriate application form
- Application Fee Payment
Click here for more information on applying for a Business Licence.
I've got my licence application. What next?
- Bring your Business Licence Application Form to the Enquiry Centre.
- There, a representative will let you know which permits you require, depending on the property:
- Development Permit (New building, addition, alteration, Change of Use)
- Building Permit or Special Inspections
- Development-Build Permit
- Trades Permits (Plubming, Electrical, Gas)
- Other Commercial Premises Permits
- Each permit will have different requirements and processes. Your visit to Development Services will provide you with the proper information.
- Once you receive the appropriate permit(s), return to Licenses and Inspections to receive your Business Licence.
