Launch Your Surrey Air Traffic Control Business Today
This page helps you start an Air Traffic Control service in Surrey (NAICS 488111). It breaks down the practical steps, from registering your business to meeting six core requirements, securing the right permits, budgeting costs, and outlining a realistic timeline. You’ll get a clear view of what’s involved and where to begin, plus practical tips to move from idea to operation with confidence.
You’ll learn the six essential requirements you’re likely to need: (1) business registration and NAICS 488111 classification, (2) a capable, compliant facility and integrated systems, (3) regulator authorization or certification for aviation operations, (4) personnel security clearances and training programs, (5) aviation liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage, (6) a formal safety management system and documented operating procedures. We’ll also cover indicative costs for setup and licensing, plus a realistic timeline from planning to launch (roughly 6–12+ months).
Why Surrey? The city’s growing aerospace and tech ecosystem, plus proximity to major airports, creates solid opportunities for specialized services. Surrey offers a business-friendly climate, access to a skilled workforce, and room to grow as your air traffic control venture expands.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Surrey is Business Number (BN) Registration. This BN is issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and you cannot legally operate a business in Canada without it. It is non-negotiable. A BN is used for taxes, payroll, and dealings with government programs, so getting it set up correctly from the start helps you stay compliant right away.
Beyond the BN, you’ll need to cover health, safety, and permits. Surrey requires a Municipal Business Licence to operate legally, and you should check for any site- or activity-specific permits that may apply. If you employ people, you must have WorkSafeBC coverage and maintain a safe workplace with proper training and records. If you plan to operate under a trade name rather than your own legal name, you’ll also need to register your BC Business Name.
On the business-registration and tax front, there are a few additional steps. If you’re using a name other than your legal name, register the BC Business Name (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership). You’ll also handle GST/HST Registration with the CRA if your revenue passes the threshold, and Payroll Deductions Registration with the CRA if you have employees. These registrations run alongside your BN and help you meet federal and provincial tax obligations, as well as employer requirements.
Next steps: reach out to Surrey’s city hall or business licensing office to confirm the exact licence needs for your air traffic control venture, and set up your BN with the CRA. If needed, register your business name, and arrange GST/HST and payroll registrations. Consider talking to a local business advisor or accountant to tailor the plan to your situation. With clear registrations in place, you’ll have a practical, actionable path to launching your Surrey business.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a air traffic control in Surrey:
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Surrey. Apply to City of Surrey for Business Licence: 1. Determine business category 2. Complete business licence application 3. Submit required documents (ID, lease, zoning confirmation) 4. Pay application and annual fees 5. Await approval and receive licence Contact City of Surrey Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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BC Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership) RequiredRegistration of sole proprietorship or partnership business names with BC Registries Register sole proprietorship or partnership at bcregistry.gov.bc.ca. Name reservation: $30 (standard) or $100 (priority 1-2 days). Registration fee: $40. Total: ~$70. Name reserved for 56 days after approval. Registration is continuous (no renewal required). No name protection for sole proprietorships. Personal names operating under own name do not require registration. Contact BC Registries: 1-877-526-1526.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration ConditionalRequired if you have workers in BC. Workers compensation insurance coverage through WorkSafeBC for employers in British Columbia WorkSafeBC coverage required for most BC employers. Average base premium rate: 1.55% of assessable payroll ($1.55 per $100). Register online at worksafebc.com. Apply 30 days before starting business or hiring workers. Processing: ~10 business days. Premium rates vary by industry classification (514 classification units). COR certified employers eligible for 10% rebate. Contact: 604-276-3100 or 1-888-967-5377.
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