Start Your Surrey Automotive Parts and Accessories Retail Shop Today
This page shows how to start an Automotive Parts and Accessories Retailers business in Surrey (NAICS 441330). It includes a clear requirements overview and practical steps to go from idea to storefront. You’ll get a realistic look at needed licenses and registrations, essential permits, and a simple cost and timeline snapshot for getting your shop off the ground.
What you’ll learn: the six essential requirements you must meet, where to apply for permits and licenses, and what startup costs to expect—business registration, tax registrations, insurance, lease or build-out, and initial inventory. You’ll also get a practical timeline from planning to opening, with clear steps so you’re never guessing what to do next.
Why Surrey works: a growing market for auto parts, strong local demand, and access to Metro Vancouver suppliers make it a great fit for a corner shop or larger retailer. Start here, tap local resources, and align with the 6 required steps to launch smoothly.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Surrey is Business Number (BN) Registration. This is the federal identifier you get from the Canada Revenue Agency and it is legally required to run your shop. You cannot legally operate, issue invoices, collect taxes, or hire staff without a BN. This is non-negotiable.
Beyond the BN, you’ll need to cover health, safety, and permits. WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration is mandatory for employers and ensures your employees are protected if injuries occur. In addition, you’ll need a valid Surrey City Business Licence to operate in the city. Keeping these in place is essential for a compliant, safe, and smoothly run store.
For business structure and taxes, you’ll also need BC Business Name Registration if you’re using a name other than your own (sole proprietorship or partnership). You can then use your BN to handle tax registrations like GST/HST and Payroll Deductions Registration. These program accounts are typically linked to your BN, making it easier to manage taxes, payroll, and related obligations.
Next steps: gather your documents, decide on your business name, and start registrations in the right order (BN first, then Surrey licence and BC name registration). Once set up, add GST/HST and payroll accounts as needed, and arrange WorkSafeBC coverage. If you’d like, I can provide a simple, step-by-step checklist or point you to local resources to speed things up. You’re on the right track—take it one step at a time and you’ll be compliant and ready to open.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a automotive parts and accessories retailers 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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