Launch Your Nail Salon in Regina: A Practical Start
This guide helps you launch a nail salon in Regina, Saskatchewan, under NAICS 812113. It breaks down the nine requirements you’ll need to meet, plus practical details on startup costs, the permits and licenses you’ll need, and a realistic timeline from planning to opening day. You’ll get a clear, actionable path to move forward with confidence—no fluff, just solid steps.
You’ll learn exactly which permits and licenses Regina requires for nail salons, including health and safety inspections, business registration, zoning checks, and any city-by-city variances. We outline typical setup costs—equipment, leasehold improvements, supplies, software, and insurance—and describe a practical timeline with milestones so you know when to apply, order, train staff, and open.
Regina’s growing beauty scene and supportive small-business landscape make it a smart place to start. You’ll find affordable rents, a diverse customer base eager for local nail services, and resources from local chambers and economic development groups to help you hit the nine requirements and grow your new salon with ease.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a nail salon in Regina is Saskatchewan Apprenticeship Commission Hairstylist Certification. This certification is legally required to perform nail and related services in Saskatchewan, and you cannot legally run your salon without it. It is non-negotiable—without the credential and ongoing compliance, you would not be allowed to offer services or hire staff. Start by confirming eligibility, enrolling in the program, and keeping your certification current.
Next, you’ll need the essential operational licenses and safety steps. Secure a valid Business Licence to operate in Regina and register your business name with ISC so your shop name is protected. If you hire employees, you must register for Saskatchewan WCB Employer Registration to provide workers’ compensation coverage and meet safety obligations. Depending on your structure, you may also need Partnership Registration or Saskatchewan Corporation Registration.
For the business and tax side, set up your administrative foundations. Obtain a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency. If you haven’t already, register your Saskatchewan business name. Plan for GST/HST registration if your revenue reaches the threshold or you choose to register voluntarily. If you have employees, arrange Payroll Deductions. If you form a partnership or corporation, complete the appropriate Partnership or Saskatchewan Corporation Registration.
You’re on the right track. Once the critical certification is secured, tackle licensing and registrations and align them with your chosen business structure. If you’d like, I can help you build a simple checklist and timeline tailored to whether you’re opening as a sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation, so you can move forward confidently in Regina.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a nail salons in Regina:
-
Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Regina. Apply to City of Regina 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 Regina Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
-
Saskatchewan Business Name Registration (ISC) RequiredBusinesses in Saskatchewan operating under a name other than the owner's legal name must register with Corporate Registry. This applies to sole proprietorships, partnerships, and business names for corporations. Registration provides legal recognition and is required for business operations, banking, and licensing. Registration can be completed online through Corporate Registry. Business name registrations must be renewed every 5 years for sole proprietorships and partnerships. Register with ISC (Information Services Corporation) for business name. Required for sole proprietorships with trade name, partnerships. $65 registration fee, $60 renewal. Name reservation valid 90 days. Online registration also registers with Ministry of Finance and CRA.
-
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).
-
Saskatchewan Apprenticeship Commission Hairstylist Certification RequiredHairstylists must be certified through the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission. Hairstylist certification through SK Apprenticeship Commission: 1. Hairstyling is a COMPULSORY trade in Saskatchewan 2. Complete approved training program 3. Register as apprentice with SK Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission 4. Complete apprenticeship (on-the-job + technical training) 5. Pass Red Seal certification exam 6. Certificate valid across Canada Apply at saskapprenticeship.ca
-
Partnership Registration ConditionalRequired for partnerships. Registration of partnerships in Saskatchewan. Register partnership with ISC: 1. Complete partnership registration form 2. Submit through ISC 3. Pay registration fees General and limited partnerships. Annual return may be required.
-
Saskatchewan WCB Employer Registration ConditionalRequired if you have employees in Saskatchewan. Employers in Saskatchewan must register with the Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) and maintain coverage for workers. WCB provides insurance for workplace injuries and occupational diseases. Most employers are required to register, with some exceptions for specific industries and self-employed individuals. Registration should occur before hiring the first worker or commencing operations. Employers pay premiums based on their industry classification rate and assessable payroll. Register with Saskatchewan WCB for workers compensation coverage. Required for employers in mandatory industries. 2024 average premium rate $1.28 per $100 payroll. Maximum assessable earnings $104,531. Directors on T4 excluded from 2025.
-
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.
-
Saskatchewan Corporation Registration ConditionalRequired if incorporating in Saskatchewan. Incorporation of a company under Saskatchewan law. Incorporate through ISC Corporate Registry: 1. Conduct NUANS name search 2. Prepare articles of incorporation 3. Submit through ISC online or registry 4. Pay incorporation fees Annual return required. Federal incorporation is alternative option.
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: