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Transfer your business licence to someone else

Taking over an existing business? Your new business must be the same type of business as the existing business. For example, an existing restaurant's business licence can only be transferred to a new restaurant.

Business licences can only be transferred once per calendar year.

Home-based business licences are not transferable.

When you complete the steps, we transfer the business licence:

  • Immediately if you come in person
  • In 2 to 3 weeks if you email or mail them in March to October
  • In 6 to 8 weeks if you email or mail them in November to February

Step 1: Fill out a transfer form

The transfer form must be completed by both the existing business owners and new business owners.

Step 2: Send your form

Email, mail, or bring in person your completed form and documents to the Development and Building Services Centre.

Your changes will be processed – as long as you meet the requirements.

If you come in person, you can pay for the fee. Otherwise, we'll send you an invoice.

Is your representative coming in person on your behalf?

They need to bring:

  1. Their own current, government-issued photo ID
  2. A letter of authorization from the business owner

Step 3: Get zoning, building, and licence approvals

Your new business may need zoning, building, and licence approvals.

Zoning approvals

Do the zoning regulations for address allow your business to operate? To find out, contact the Development and Building Services Centre at 604-873-7611.

Building approvals

Does the building meet our building regulations? We will review the property records and may require you to get a special inspection or building permit.

Licence approvals from other agencies

Does your new business need approvals to operate from Vancouver Police Department, Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services, and Vancouver Coastal Health Authority? We will assist you through this approval process.

Step 4: Pay the fee

The fee is $151.

You can pay in person.

By mail

Pay by cheque or money order (credit card cheques are not accepted) issued to the City of Vancouver. Send your payment to the mailing address on this page.

In person

Pay by credit card, debit card, cheque, money order, or cash. Credit card cheques are not accepted. Make cheques and money orders payable to the City of Vancouver. Bring your payment to the office location on this page.

 Expect long line-ups at our office from November to February during our busy times.