Start Your Burnaby Fish and Seafood Retailers Business
This page offers a practical, step-by-step path to launching a Burnaby fish and seafood retailer (NAICS 445250). It highlights the six core requirements you’ll need to meet to operate legally and smoothly, with clear guidance on permits, costs, and the typical timeline from planning to opening.
You’ll learn exactly what to secure: a Burnaby business license, a provincial health permit for a food premises, and the Food Safety BC rules that apply to seafood handling. We break down labeling and allergen requirements, proper storage and cold‑chain practices, and what inspectors look for during review. You’ll also get a realistic view of fees, permit costs, and typical approval timelines so you can budget confidently for a storefront or pop-up launch.
Burnaby is a strong fit for this business thanks to a growing market, proximity to seafood suppliers, and a diverse customer base. The city’s clear licensing path and supportive small-business climate help turn your plan into a thriving retail operation.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a fish and seafood retailer in Burnaby is Product Safety Compliance (Retail). This is a legal requirement you cannot bypass, and you cannot legally operate without meeting the safety and handling standards for seafood sold to consumers. It’s non-negotiable: your store must have documented product safety practices, proper storage, accurate labeling, and trained staff to handle seafood safely.
The second paragraph covers Mandatory Operational Requirements. In addition to product safety, you’ll need to align with health and safety rules and obtain the necessary permits and inspections. Expect to maintain proper sanitation, clean and hygienic facilities, and correct cold storage for perishable seafood. Staff training on safe handling, temperature control, and recall procedures is important, and you’ll need to comply with WorkSafeBC coverage and registration to protect workers and ensure a safe workplace.
The third paragraph addresses Business Registration & Tax. You’ll need a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency. If you operate as a sole proprietorship or partnership, you should also register a BC Business Name. Plan for GST/HST registration if your revenue meets the threshold, and payroll deductions registration if you have employees. Keeping these registrations and tax accounts up to date will help you stay compliant as you grow.
Encouragement: take the next steps with confidence by tackling these in small, practical steps. Start by checking the BC and CRA resources for how to apply for your BN, business name, and GST/HST; set up your seafood safety program and training; and outline a simple compliance calendar. With a clear plan and the right registrations in place, you’ll be well on your way to a compliant, smoothly run Burnaby fish and seafood shop.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a fish and seafood retailers in Burnaby:
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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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Product Safety Compliance (Retail) RequiredRetailers must ensure products meet Canadian safety standards, properly label products, report safety incidents, and participate in product recalls when required. Canada Consumer Product Safety Act (CCPSA) applies federally. Health Canada enforces. Mandatory incident reporting for serious harm. 6-year record keeping. Recall responsibilities. No provincial retail license for general products. Children's product safety requirements stricter. Cosmetics: labeling and notification. Check recall database. Contact Health Canada: 1-866-662-0666.
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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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