Launch Cemeteries and Crematories Business in Surrey Today
This page guides you through starting a Cemeteries and Crematories business in Surrey, BC (NAICS 812220). It offers a practical, step-by-step overview of the seven regulatory requirements you’ll need to meet, plus the permits, registrations, and inspections involved. You’ll also find typical startup costs and a realistic timeline from concept to opening, so you can plan with confidence.
You’ll learn exactly what the seven requirements cover, including licensing, zoning approvals, environmental permits, health-and-safety compliance, waste management rules, business registration, and cemetery-service approvals. We outline where to apply for each permit, what documents you’ll need, and common timelines. We also share cost ranges for land, facilities, equipment, and ongoing operations, helping you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Surrey’s growing population and close proximity to Vancouver create steady demand for compassionate memorial services. This city–business combo offers access to skilled partners, reliable suppliers, and a supportive local business climate, making it a practical choice for the long game.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a cemetery and crematory business in Surrey is BC Funeral Director/Embalmer Licence. This licence is legally required to perform funeral directing and embalming duties, and you cannot operate the business without it. Without this qualification, you won’t be able to legally offer funeral services or oversee the necessary operations, and other licenses won’t be valid.
Next come the mandatory operational requirements that keep your site safe and compliant. You must have WorkSafeBC coverage and registration for all staff, with the appropriate safety training and records in place. In addition, you’ll need the necessary local permits and licences from Surrey to operate legally, including the municipal business licence. Keeping up with health and safety rules and obtaining the correct permits will help protect workers, families, and the community.
For business setup and tax compliance, you’ll need to arrange several registrations. This includes BC Business Number (BN) Registration, BC Business Name Registration if you’re operating as a sole proprietorship or partnership, GST/HST Registration, and Payroll Deductions Registration for employees. These numbers help you handle taxes, reporting, and payroll properly, and they’re essential to run the business on a sound legal footing.
If you’re ready to move forward, your next steps are practical and straightforward. Start by confirming the BC Funeral Director/Embalmer Licence requirements and begin the application with the appropriate licensing body. At the same time, set up your BN and name registration, and apply for GST/HST and payroll accounts. Then obtain Surrey’s municipal business licence and line up WorkSafeBC coverage. You’ve got this—take it one step at a time, and you’ll be on solid ground.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a cemeteries and crematories in Surrey:
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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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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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