Launch Your Toronto Barber Shop: A Practical Guide

This page gives a practical, action-ready plan to start a barber shop in Toronto. You’ll find a 13-item requirements checklist plus a straightforward overview of the permits and licenses you’ll need, from business registration and barber licensing to municipal zoning and storefront signage. We translate the rules into clear steps, with a realistic cost snapshot and a practical timeline to opening under NAICS 812111.

What you’ll learn: You’ll master the 13 requirements, know exactly which authorities to contact, and understand fees, processing times, and budgeting for rent, equipment, insurance, and renovations. You’ll get a simple timeline from concept to grand opening and a practical plan for handling permits, inspections, and the necessary licensing so you can start serving clients with confidence.

Why Toronto works: Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods, dense population, and strong demand for grooming make it a smart place to launch a barber shop. A well-planned Toronto business setup—backed by the 13 requirements—helps you stay compliant, control costs, and quickly build a loyal local clientele.

Business Type

Barber Shops

Location

Toronto

Requirements Overview

The most critical requirement for operating a barber shop in Toronto is Esthetician Training Certification. This certification is legally required if you plan to offer any esthetic services such as facials or waxing, and you cannot legally operate the business without it. It is non-negotiable. In addition, you’ll also need the Hairstylist Certificate of Qualification (Includes Barbers) to perform barbering work. Having both ensures you meet occupation-specific standards and can legally provide the full range of barbering services.

On the operational side, health and safety and permits are essential. You must follow Infection Prevention and Control for Personal Services, comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and pass the Personal Service Settings Premises Inspection before opening. Also secure a valid Business Licence and ensure the premises meet inspection requirements. These steps protect clients and staff and are mandatory to stay in business.

Business Registration & Tax: Set up your legal business by registering an Ontario Business Name (ServiceOntario) and obtaining a Business Number (BN) with the Canada Revenue Agency. You’ll also need GST/HST registration if you meet the threshold, plus Payroll Deductions Registration for employees, and WSIB registration and coverage. It’s wise to arrange Professional/General Liability Insurance to protect against claims and losses.

Next steps: Start by confirming the critical certifications with the regulators, then tackle registrations and licences in a practical sequence. Gather documents, book the required training, and file for the BN, GST/HST, and insurance. With a clear plan and steady progress, you’ll move from planning to opening smoothly. If you’re unsure, reach out to a local business advisor or regulatory office for guidance.

Detailed Requirements

Here are the specific requirements for starting a barber shops in Toronto:

Infection Prevention and Control for Personal Services Required

Personal service establishments in Toronto must implement infection prevention and control measures as required by Toronto Public Health, including sterilization protocols, equipment maintenance, and staff training. No registration required - compliance-based requirement under Ontario Reg. 136/18 and Toronto BodySafe program. Key requirements: 1. Dedicated handwashing sink with hot/cold running water, soap, and paper towels 2. All surfaces smooth, in good repair, and made of impermeable material 3. Single-use items discarded immediately after each client 4. Maintain records for 3 years (minimum 1 year on-site) 5. Annual inspections by Toronto Public Health - display Pass/Conditional Pass notice Violations can result in Conditional Pass or Service Closed notices. Re-inspections occur within 48 hours.
Business Number (BN) Registration Required

A 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).
Business Licence Required

General business licence required to operate a business in City of Toronto. Apply to City of Toronto 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 Toronto Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
Esthetician Training Certification Required

While not legally mandatory in Ontario, most insurance companies and employers require completion of an accredited esthetician program for liability and competency purposes. Not mandatory licensing, but certification required by most employers. Complete diploma/certificate at approved Private Career College or community college (600-1500 hours). Must meet Esthetician Subject Specific Standard (March 2010). Graduates cannot perform controlled acts (RHPA). Exam after program. 9 VLOs + employability outcomes. Schools: Seneca, George Brown, Conestoga. Contact institution.
Personal Service Settings Premises Inspection Required

Personal service settings in Toronto must comply with provincial health and safety standards under O. Reg. 136/18 and undergo premises inspection by Toronto Public Health. Required for barbershops, salons, spas, tattoo parlors, and other personal care establishments. Apply for Personal Services Settings (PSS) licence through Toronto Municipal Licensing: 1. Notify Toronto Public Health at BodySafe@toronto.ca at least 14 days before opening 2. Obtain zoning approval from Toronto Building (required for home-based) 3. Apply online or in-person at 850 Coxwell Ave (walk-ins Mon-Wed 8:30AM, appointments Fri) 4. Fee: $433.57 new ($203.59 application + $229.98 licence), $285.05 renewal 5. Display both MLS licence and BodySafe inspection notice visibly to public Required documents: 2 photo IDs, Criminal Record Check (within 280 days), Occupancy Declaration, Certificate of Qualification for hairstylists.
Ontario Business Name Registration (ServiceOntario) Required

Businesses in Ontario operating under a name other than the owner's legal name must register with Ontario Business Registry through ServiceOntario. This includes sole proprietorships, partnerships, and business names for corporations. Registration provides legal protection for the business name within Ontario and is required for banking, licensing, and business operations. Registration can be completed online through Ontario Business Registry. Business name registrations must be renewed every 5 years. Register business name with Ontario Business Registry: 1. Search Ontario Business Registry (free) for name availability 2. Consider NUANS name report ($25) for thorough search 3. Register online through Ontario Business Registry 4. Pay registration fee ($60 for sole proprietorship/partnership) 5. Receive 9-digit Ontario Business Identification Number (BIN) 6. Registration valid for 5 years 7. Renew before expiry
Occupational Health and Safety Act Compliance Required

All Ontario workplaces must comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act to ensure safe working conditions. Requirements include workplace safety policies, training, hazard assessments, and incident reporting. No registration - compliance law. Must post OHSA in workplace. JHSC required for 20+ workers (or 6+ in designated industries). Nov 2025: New administrative penalty scheme, defibrillator reimbursement. Telework now covered. Fines: up to $500K individuals, $1.5M corporations. 27 regulations under OHSA. Must conduct safety audits, maintain training records. Contact: 1-877-202-0008.
Hairstylist Certificate of Qualification (Includes Barbers) Required

In Ontario, hairstyling is a COMPULSORY CERTIFIED TRADE. Individuals practicing as hairstylists or barbers must hold a valid Certificate of Qualification or be registered apprentices to legally work in the trade. Ontario does not have a separate barber certification - both hairstylists and barbers fall under the "Hairstylist" trade classification and must meet the same certification requirements. To obtain certification, individuals must complete an apprenticeship program (approximately 1,500 hours of training) or an approved hairstyling program, followed by passing the Certificate of Qualification examination administered by Skilled Trades Ontario. Working as a hairstylist or barber without proper certification is illegal and subject to enforcement. Compulsory trade in Ontario. Register with Skilled Trades Ontario (STO, replaced OCOT April 2025). Need: Grade 12 or equivalent, 1500 hours training (career college) or apprenticeship. Pass certification exam. Red Seal available. Trade Equivalency Assessment for experienced workers. Exam fee: $150+HST. Must be registered apprentice, PCQ or CQ holder to work. Contact STO: 1-855-299-0028.
Employment Standards Compliance Conditional

Applies if you have employees. Covers minimum wage, hours of work, vacation pay, public holidays, termination notice, etc. All Ontario employers must comply with the Employment Standards Act, covering minimum wage, hours of work, overtime, vacation, termination, severance, and other workplace rights. No registration required - compliance-based requirement. Follow Employment Standards Act (ESA) for minimum wage, hours of work, overtime, vacation, leaves, and termination. Post ESA poster in workplace (free download from ontario.ca). Keep employment records for 3 years. NEW for 2025: Employers with 25+ staff must provide written employment info to new hires by July 1, 2025. Job postings must include salary ranges by Jan 1, 2026. Call 1-800-531-5551 for help.
GST/HST Registration Conditional

Required 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.
Payroll Deductions Registration Conditional

Required 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.
WSIB Registration and Coverage Conditional

Required within 10 days of hiring first employee, including family members and subcontractors. Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) registration is mandatory for most Ontario businesses with employees. Provides compensation and support for workplace injuries and illnesses. Sole proprietors and partners can apply for optional coverage. Register FREE online at wsib.ca in 15-20 minutes. MANDATORY for most Ontario employers within 10 calendar days of hiring first worker. You'll need: CRA Business Number, payroll estimate, business activity description, owner/director info. Account number issued INSTANTLY online. Construction industry has expanded compulsory coverage. Premium rates vary by industry classification. Must display WSIB safety poster in workplace.
Professional/General Liability Insurance Recommended

Service businesses should maintain liability insurance appropriate to their risk profile. Not provincially mandated but industry standard. CGL minimum $1M for small businesses. Required by contracts, landlords, clients. Covers bodily injury, property damage, personal injury. E&O insurance for professional services. D&O for directors. Cyber insurance increasingly required. WSIB separate requirement. Contact licensed insurance broker (RIBO-regulated).

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