Launch a Cemeteries and Crematories Business in Burnaby
Welcome to your practical guide for launching a Cemeteries and Crematories business in Burnaby (NAICS 812220). This page lays out the six essential requirements, the permits and licenses you will need, and what to expect for costs and timelines. Get a clear, actionable path to turn your vision into a compliant, ready-to-operate facility. You will also find checklists and cost ranges to help you budget accurately.
Inside, you will learn what the six requirements cover, where to apply for the necessary permits and licenses, the typical setup and ongoing costs, and the expected timeline from registration to opening. You will also pick up practical steps for zoning approvals, health and environmental compliance, and building standards that fit Burnaby's rules.
Why Burnaby? This city’s supportive planning environment, skilled workforce, and proximity to Vancouver make it a practical hub for cemeteries and crematories. With clear local guidance and a ready network of suppliers, your startup can move efficiently from paperwork to service.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a cemetery and crematorium in Burnaby is BC Funeral Director/Embalmer Licence. This credential is legally required to run these services, and you cannot legally operate without it. It’s non-negotiable—without this license, the business cannot legally start or function. If you don’t have it, begin the licensure process or partner with a licensed professional who can supervise operations.
Beyond licensing, you must meet mandatory health, safety, and permit obligations. Ensure you have a robust health and safety program for staff and visitors, and secure WorkSafeBC coverage and registration for all workers. Implement required safety training, proper record-keeping, and incident reporting in line with BC rules. Depending on local guidance, you may also need appropriate municipal permits or approvals as part of operating a cemetery or crematorium.
On the business and tax side, you’ll need a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency to handle taxes, payroll, and related filings. If you’re operating as a sole proprietorship or partnership, register your BC Business Name. You’ll also need GST/HST registration (whether you hit the threshold or choose to register) and Payroll Deductions Registration so you can withhold and remit the appropriate payroll taxes.
Next steps: verify your licensing status with the BC licensing authority and start the application if needed, then set up your BN and business name registration. Arrange GST/HST and payroll registrations as required, and confirm any Burnaby-specific steps with a regulatory adviser or city staff. With these foundations in place, you’ll have a clear, practical path to launching your cemetery and crematory business.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a cemeteries and crematories in Burnaby:
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BC Funeral Director/Embalmer Licence RequiredLicence for funeral directors and embalmers in British Columbia issued by Consumer Protection BC under the Cemetery and Funeral Services Act Apply through Consumer Protection BC. Licence fee: $249. Renewal: $182-249. Must complete accredited funeral service education and apprenticeship. Funeral provider licence: $706. Criminal record check required. Continuing education mandatory. Contact: Consumer Protection BC at 1-888-564-9963.
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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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