Launch Your Musical Groups and Artists Business in Burnaby
This page provides a practical, step-by-step overview for starting a musical groups and artists business in Burnaby under NAICS 711130. It breaks down the six essential requirements, from business registration to local licenses and performance permits. You’ll find a clear overview of costs, a realistic timeline, and the documents you’ll need to get your first auditions, gigs, and collaborations off the ground.
You’ll learn the exact permits and licenses you might need (often including a city business license and performance permits), typical start-up costs (equipment, rehearsal space, insurance, licensing), and a practical timeline from planning to your first show. We’ll outline registrations (business structure and tax registrations like GST/HST if applicable), and share practical steps to set up contracts and efficient bookings in Burnaby.
Burnaby’s growing arts scene, affordable studio spaces, and easy access to Vancouver create ideal opportunities for musical groups and solo artists. With six clear requirements aligned to local rules, you can move from idea to stage faster while keeping costs predictable and timelines realistic.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Burnaby is Copyright Compliance (Media & Entertainment). This is a legal must—you cannot operate a music group without proper permission or licenses for any music you perform, record, or distribute. Make sure material is your own or you have the appropriate rights, and keep clear records of licenses and permissions. If you perform songs you didn’t write, arrange licensing through the relevant rights organizations (for example, performing rights and mechanical licenses) so you’re not at risk of infringing copyright.
Beyond copyright, there are mandatory operational requirements around health, safety, and permits. If you have staff or independent musicians, you must have WorkSafeBC coverage and registrations. Ensure your stage setup, equipment, and venues meet safety standards, with sensible risk assessments and clear emergency procedures. Some performances—especially large events, street busking, or venue gigs—may require permits or approvals from Burnaby City authorities or the venue itself, so check local rules and plan ahead.
For business setup and taxes, you’ll need a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency and, if you operate under a name other than your own, BC Business Name Registration for a sole proprietorship or partnership. GST/HST registration may be required if your revenue crosses the threshold or if you choose to register voluntarily, and payroll deductions registration applies if you hire employees. These registrations keep you compliant with taxes and payroll rules and help you run a legitimate operation.
Next steps: map out your rights and licenses, apply for a BN, decide on a business name and register in BC if needed, and review GST/HST and payroll needs. Then set up WorkSafeBC coverage and reach out to local advisors or Burnaby’s resources to confirm any venue or permit requirements. You’ve got this—with the right foundations, your group can grow confidently.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a musical groups and artists in Burnaby:
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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.
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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.
Funding & Grants
Available funding programs that may apply to your musical groups and artists:
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The City of Castlegar's Grants in Aid program accepts applications from community organizations four times per year. The program supports non-profit and community groups delivering programs and services in Castlegar, including arts and cultural organizations. Applications are reviewed quarterly by City Council.
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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 …
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The Chrysalis Project, initiated in 2018, is a hands-on learning program that provides emerging directors, designers, and choreographers with experience and exposure to professional productions at Neptune Theatre. Chrysalis participants are mentored by seasoned local and visiting professionals. Supported by the RBC Emerging Artist Program, it has included dedicated streams …
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The Maria Anna Mozart Award, launched in 2016, is the first award of its kind in Canada. It provides $10,000 for Symphony Nova Scotia to commission and perform a new symphonic work by a Canadian woman or non-binary composer. The award is given every three years and was made possible …
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The Municipality of Pictou County provides Municipal Grants to non-profit sector and charitable organizations that offer community-based programs and services that replace, supplement, or complement the municipal mandate. Grants benefit one or more council districts or the entire municipality. This includes support for arts, culture, and heritage organizations and initiatives.
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