Launch Your All Other Personal Services Business in Saint John
This page guides you through starting an All Other Personal Services business (NAICS 812990) in Saint John. It offers a practical, step-by-step path from concept to opening, with checklists, rough costs, and a clear timeline. You’ll get a concise overview of the eight requirements you’ll need to meet, plus what permits, registrations, and licenses are typically involved so you’re not guessing at the process.
You’ll learn exactly which permits and registrations apply, typical startup costs, and how long the process usually takes in Saint John. We break the eight requirements into manageable steps, show you where to apply, what documents to gather, and realistic timelines. Plus, you’ll get pro tips to save time, avoid common delays, and stay compliant as you grow.
Saint John’s supportive business scene and steady demand for personal services make this a great fit for an All Other Personal Services venture. With approachable licensing, affordable spaces, and local resources, you can launch confidently and start serving customers sooner.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Saint John is the Business Licence. This license from the city is mandatory to legally run a personal services business, and you cannot operate without it. Securing the licence first also helps you confirm your location and services comply with local rules, making this non-negotiable groundwork for starting your business.
Mandatory operational requirements: In addition to the licence, health, safety, and permits are essential. Make sure your premises meet safety standards and local permitting requirements. If you have employees, you must carry New Brunswick WorkSafeNB Employer Coverage. If you hire staff, you’ll also need to set up payroll deductions with the appropriate authorities.
Business registration and tax: You’ll need a Business Number (BN) for federal taxes and a New Brunswick Business Name Registration (SNB) if you operate under a name other than your own. Depending on your structure, you may need Partnership Registration or NB Corporation Registration. GST/HST Registration may apply if your revenue crosses the threshold, and Payroll Deductions Registration is required if you employ staff.
Next steps and encouragement: Start by confirming the Saint John licence, then line up your BN and SNB, decide your business structure, and check GST/HST thresholds. Gather documents, apply online where possible, and reach out to a local business centre or advisor for help. With these fundamentals in place, you’ll be well positioned to launch your personal services business in Saint John confidently and responsibly.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a all other personal services in Saint John:
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Saint John. Apply to City of Saint John 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 Saint John 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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New Brunswick Business Name Registration (SNB) RequiredBusinesses in New Brunswick must register their business name with Service New Brunswick if operating under a name other than the owner's legal name. This applies to sole proprietorships, partnerships, and trade names. Registration provides legal recognition and is required for business operations and licensing. Registration can be completed online through SNB Online. Business name registrations for sole proprietorships and partnerships must be renewed every 5 years. To register a business name in New Brunswick: 1. Conduct name search ($13.80) 2. Complete registration through SNB Online 3. Pay $112 registration fee (includes Royal Gazette) 4. Receive certificate of business name 5. Renew every 5 years ($62) 6. Report any changes as required
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Partnership Registration ConditionalRequired for partnerships. Registration of partnerships. Register through Province of New Brunswick Corporate Registry or business services: 1. Conduct name search if applicable 2. Complete registration application 3. Submit required documents 4. Pay registration fees Contact Province of New Brunswick government services for specific requirements and fees. Annual reporting may be required.
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NB Corporation Registration ConditionalRequired if incorporating in New Brunswick. Incorporation under NB law. Register through Province of New Brunswick Corporate Registry or business services: 1. Conduct name search if applicable 2. Complete registration application 3. Submit required documents 4. Pay registration fees Contact Province of New Brunswick government services for specific requirements and fees. Annual reporting may be required.
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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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New Brunswick WorkSafeNB Employer Coverage ConditionalRequired if you have employees in New Brunswick. Employers in New Brunswick must register with WorkSafeNB (Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission) and maintain coverage for workers. WorkSafeNB provides insurance coverage for workplace injuries and occupational diseases. Most employers are required to register, with limited exceptions. Registration must occur within 10 days of commencing business operations or hiring the first worker. Employers pay assessments based on their classification unit rate and assessable payroll. To register with WorkSafeNB: 1. Determine if you're in a mandatory industry with 3+ workers 2. Register with WorkSafeNB online or by phone 3. Report assessable payroll annually 4. Pay premiums based on industry rate ($1.18/100 avg 2024) 5. Maintain coverage and report workplace injuries 6. Experience rating affects rate (+80% to -40%)
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