Start a Motion Picture and Video Production Business in Kelowna
This page walks you through starting a motion picture and video production business in Kelowna (NAICS 512110). It lays out a practical, seven-step path to get legally up and running, from choosing a business structure to filing the basics. You’ll find a clean requirements overview, what permits you’ll need for shoots, typical startup costs, and a realistic timeline that moves you from idea to your first production fast.
You’ll learn: a clear overview of the seven requirements to legally start your motion picture and video production business, including registration, licensing, and basic insurance. We’ll break down the permits you may need for Kelowna shoots (location permits, film permissions, and drone use) and where to apply. Expect practical cost guidance—covering essential registrations, insurance, gear, and office setup—plus a realistic timeline that moves you from incorporation to your first project.
Kelowna’s growing film scene, affordable production spaces, and scenic locations make it a smart place to launch a motion picture and video production business. You’ll benefit from supportive local networks and opportunities to collaborate with crews and clients across the Okanagan.
Requirements Overview
For a motion picture and video production business in Kelowna, Copyright Compliance (Media & Entertainment) is a fundamental starting point. You must have the rights to all music, stock footage, images and brand elements used in your projects, with the proper licenses or permissions in place. Operating without cleared content can trigger legal action and costly penalties, so ensure every element you plan to use is properly cleared before you publish or distribute anything.
Beyond rights management, you’ll want to cover health, safety, and permits. On set, make sure you have WorkSafeBC coverage and are properly registered for workplace safety. If you shoot on location, you may need local filming permits or approvals from property owners or the city. Plan for these requirements early so your shoots stay compliant and avoid on-location snags.
For business setup and tax compliance, you’ll handle the registration and numbers that keep you legal and organized. This includes obtaining a Business Number (BN) from the federal government, and, if you’re a sole proprietor or partnership, completing BC Business Name Registration. You’ll also need a local business licence and, if applicable, GST/HST Registration as well as Payroll Deductions Registration if you have employees.
Ready to take the next step? Start with the basics by visiting provincial and federal resources to register your BN, name, and licence, and set up any tax accounts. Gather the necessary information, map out a simple compliance calendar, and consider a quick chat with a small-business advisor to keep you on track and confident as you launch your Kelowna production.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a motion picture and video production in Kelowna:
-
Copyright Compliance (Media & Entertainment) RequiredMedia production and entertainment businesses must comply with copyright law, obtain rights/licenses, and may need to register with copyright collectives (SOCAN, Re:Sound). Copyright Act compliance for media and entertainment. Licensing agreements. SOCAN, Re:Sound royalties. Digital rights management. Fair dealing. Contact Copyright Board: 613-952-8621.
-
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).
-
Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Kelowna. Apply to City of Kelowna 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 Kelowna Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Funding & Grants
Available funding programs that may apply to your motion picture and video production:
-
The Open Spaces Program is an initiative by Prismatic Arts Festival and Neptune Theatre to assist traditionally marginalized and underrepresented communities in the HRM arts community. The program provides free access to a rehearsal room, kitchen, and restroom facilities including power, lighting, and stage space. Artists of all disciplines and …
-
The Lunenburg Foundation for the Arts provides grants for both emerging and established artists working across the full range of artistic media, as well as arts-based organizations. Grants are awarded based on artistic merit, financial need, and benefit to the arts in Lunenburg County. A jury chair is appointed by …
-
The Trail & District Arts Council disburses $1,000 annually to performance, literary, or visual artists under 18 years of age towards arts training and development. The amount awarded to each applicant varies depending on the number of applicants and amounts requested. Training must take place within 12 months after the …
-
The Town of Rosetown provides information and access to numerous cultural, sports, and recreation funding opportunities for individuals, community groups, and non-profit organizations. Available funding sources include the Saskatchewan Lotteries Community Grant, Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) Community Vitality Program, Creative Kids, Saskatchewan Arts Board grants, and the Rosetown & District …
-
The Share and Connect: Indigenous Community Arts program seeks to empower Indigenous communities to control and develop their own arts and culture. It is a SK Arts program supported by funding from Sask Lotteries through the partnership between SK Arts and SaskCulture Inc. The program has two annual deadlines (January …
Ready to Launch Your Business?
Starting a business can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. Our AI-powered business matcher can help you understand exactly what you need for your specific situation.
Try Our AI Business Matcher Get Expert Help
No credit card required • Takes 2 minutes
Browse Other Business Sectors
Explore business requirements in other industries: