Launch Your Surrey All Other Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation Business
This page maps to NAICS 485999, All Other Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation. It helps you start a Surrey business in this category. It breaks down the seven requirements you'll need to meet, plus the permits, registrations, and practical steps to get licensed and operating. You'll find a clear overview of start-up costs and a realistic timeline so you can plan confidently from day one.
You’ll learn what the seven requirements cover, the permits and registrations you’ll typically need in Surrey, rough start-up costs, and a practical 6–12 week timeline to get on the road. The guide also walks you through preparing your application, the documents to assemble, and how to present your business plan to city reviewers and insurers.
Why Surrey? The city’s growth, strong transportation links, and a welcoming business climate make it a great launchpad for transit services. Surrey is actively expanding its transit network, so early compliance with local rules can speed up approvals and help you capture new opportunities quickly.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Surrey is the Business Number (BN) registration. This federal identifier is used to set up tax accounts (GST/HST, payroll deductions, and other government programs) and to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other agencies. Legally, you cannot properly operate or fulfill reporting obligations without a BN, so obtaining one is a foundational step you must complete before hiring staff or billing customers.
Next come mandatory operational requirements that keep your business safe and compliant. Health and safety registrations matter, so ensure you have WorkSafeBC coverage for your employees and comply with applicable safety rules for transporting passengers. If your operation requires federal oversight, such as a Transport Canada Operating Certificate, apply for and secure that certificate before launching service. These items protect your workers and passengers and ensure your business meets regulatory expectations.
Business Registration & Tax: In Surrey you’ll typically need a BC Business Name Registration if you’re operating under a name other than your own, plus a municipal Business Licence to operate locally. You’ll also register for GST/HST if you meet the threshold and set up Payroll Deductions Registration if you have employees. Completing these steps helps you handle taxes smoothly and keeps your business compliant with both provincial and federal requirements.
Encouragement: Start with obtaining your BN, then move on to the local business licence, name registration if needed, and the tax registrations listed. If you’re unsure of the exact forms or timelines, connect with BC government portals or a local business advisor who can guide you through Surrey’s specific steps. With a clear plan and steady progress, you’ll build a strong, compliant foundation and be ready to serve customers.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a all other transit and ground passenger transportation 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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Transport Canada Operating Certificate ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Passenger transportation services may require operating certificates from Transport Canada depending on service type and interprovincial operations. Transport Canada general operating certificate. Motor carrier, aviation, marine, rail. Mode-specific requirements. Contact TC: 1-800-333-0371.
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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.
Funding & Grants
Available funding programs that may apply to your all other transit and ground passenger transportation:
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The Zero Emission Transit Fund (ZETF) is a $2.75 billion federal program running from 2021 to 2026 that advances Canada's commitment to electrify public transit and school bus fleets. The fund supports both planning projects (feasibility studies, transition plans, up to 80% of eligible costs) and capital projects (vehicle procurement, …
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