Launch an All Other Personal Services Business in Richmond, BC
This page guides you through starting an All Other Personal Services business in Richmond, BC (NAICS 812990). It offers a practical roadmap from idea to opening, including a concise six-item requirements overview, the permits and licenses you’ll likely need, typical startup costs, and a realistic timeline to guide your planning, plus ongoing support resources.
What you’ll learn: the six requirements you must meet, the specific permits at municipal and provincial levels, and the registrations that apply. We break down costs you can expect—from licenses to space and equipment—plus a step-by-step timeline from application to launch. You’ll also see essential actions like naming your business, getting insured, and setting up basic bookkeeping.
Richmond’s vibrant service scene and business-friendly environment make it a great place to launch an All Other Personal Services business. With easy access to clients, suppliers, and city resources, you can build a steady foundation for growth right here in your community.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Richmond is the Business Licence. This is a legal requirement issued by the City of Richmond, and you cannot legally run a personal services business without it. Getting your licence in place first helps you avoid fines, shutdowns, and other penalties—it's non-negotiable, so start here.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: Health, safety, and permits come next. Health and safety obligations are met through WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration if you have employees or contractors, so you’re protecting your team and staying compliant. The business licence itself serves as your basic operating permit from the city, and you’ll want to keep it current. If you hire staff, you’ll also need Payroll Deductions Registration to handle pay-related taxes and deductions properly.
Business Registration & Tax: To handle your business identity and taxes, register a BC Business Name if you’re operating as a sole proprietorship or partnership, and obtain a Canada Revenue Agency Business Number (BN) to manage tax accounts. Depending on your revenue and structure, GST/HST Registration may be required or beneficial. These steps ensure you’re set up for proper tax reporting and government interactions as you grow.
Encouragement: You’re off to a solid start by securing the licence and the essential registrations. Next steps: contact City of Richmond’s business licensing to apply or renew your licence, set up your BN with the CRA, register your BC business name if needed, and monitor GST/HST obligations based on your revenue. If you hire, get WorkSafeBC arrangements in place. Tackle these in small steps, and you’ll be compliant and ready to serve your clients confidently.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a all other personal services in Richmond:
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Richmond. Apply to City of Richmond 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 Richmond Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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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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