Start Your All Other Personal Services Business in Burnaby
Thinking about launching an All Other Personal Services business (NAICS 812990) in Burnaby? This page breaks down the practical path—from the five key requirements you’ll need to meet to the permits, costs, and a realistic timeline. Learn how to navigate municipal licensing, what approvals you might need, and what the start-up costs look like, so you can move forward with confidence.
You’ll walk away with a concrete plan: the five requirements you’ll complete, how to apply for a Burnaby business license and any provincial permits, typical costs (registration, license, insurance, and basic setup), and a clear timeline from application to opening. The guide also highlights common pitfalls and practical steps to speed up approvals, so you’re ready to start serving clients sooner.
You’ll also see why Burnaby is a great base for personal services—affordable space, strong local demand, and easy access to Metro Vancouver clients. With support from a city that welcomes small businesses, you’ll find it easier to establish your name, build trust, and grow your client base while keeping costs under control.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Burnaby is the Business Number (BN) Registration. This number is issued by the Canada Revenue Agency and is legally required to manage taxes, payroll, and other filings. You cannot legally operate a business without a BN — it is non-negotiable.
Next, you’ll handle mandatory operational requirements that keep your workplace safe and compliant. Health and safety rules hinge on WorkSafeBC coverage and registration, especially if you hire employees. You’ll also want to verify any municipal permits or licenses Burnaby requires for your personal services—these ensure you’re allowed to operate in your exact location and service type. If you have staff, you’ll need payroll deductions registrations as part of your payroll setup.
In terms of business registration and taxes, you’ll secure the BN (as noted above) and register your BC Business Name if you’re operating as a sole proprietorship or partnership under a name other than your own. You’ll also handle GST/HST registration if your revenues reach the threshold (or you choose to register voluntarily) and payroll deductions registration to remit employee withholdings. These registrations enable you to legally bill clients, report income, and file taxes accurately.
Next steps: decide your business structure (sole proprietor vs. partnership), get your BN, register your BC business name if needed, and explore GST/HST and payroll accounts. If you hire staff, set up WorkSafeBC coverage. If you’d like a simple, tailored checklist or help navigating Burnaby’s licensing steps for personal services, I’m happy to help you map out the exact actions and timelines.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a all other personal services in Burnaby:
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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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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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