Launch a National Security Firm in Burnaby: Start Here
This page gives you a practical, step-by-step roadmap to starting a national security operation in Burnaby under NAICS 928110. You'll find a clear overview of the seven essential requirements and the permits, licenses, and practical steps you need to get up and running without overwhelm.
What you'll learn: a simple run-down of the 7 essential requirements you must meet, including business registration, municipal and provincial licenses, security-provider credentials, insurance, background checks, and ongoing compliance. We'll outline where to apply and approximate timelines, from initial filing to approvals. We'll break down typical startup costs—like registration, licensing fees, insurance, and training—and lay out a realistic timeline for getting your first client.
Why Burnaby works well for this kind of business: strong infrastructure, close access to Vancouver's talent pool, and a supportive regulatory environment for security services. With a practical plan and local resources, you can build a compliant, competitive national security firm in this city.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Burnaby is the Business Number (BN) Registration. This number, issued by the Canada Revenue Agency, is your official ID for taxes, payroll, and government filings. You cannot legally run a business or hire staff without a BN, so this step is non-negotiable and should be done first.
Beyond registration, focus on essential operational requirements. If you have employees, WorkSafeBC coverage and registration is mandatory to protect workers and stay compliant with BC law. For those planning to work with government programs or handle sensitive information, you may also need Security Clearance and Screening and to follow Government Program Administration Standards. These elements aren’t universal, but they’re non-negotiable if you’ll be pursuing government work or contracts.
For business registration and tax, you’ll want to complete BC Business Name Registration (for a Sole Proprietorship or Partnership) and ensure GST/HST Registration as soon as you meet the thresholds or when you sell taxable goods or services. In addition, Payroll Deductions Registration is needed so you can properly withhold and remit employee taxes and benefits. Getting these numbers in place helps keep you compliant and ready to grow.
Getting these steps in place sets you up for success. Start by applying for the BN, then register your BC business name, and set up GST/HST and payroll numbers as needed. If you’re targeting government work, plan for potential security clearances early. If you’d like, I can map out a simple week-by-week checklist to keep you on track.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a national security 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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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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Security Clearance and Screening ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Government personnel in security-sensitive positions must undergo security clearance, background checks, and maintain confidentiality protocols. Federal security clearance and screening. CSIS background checks. Reliability status, Secret, Top Secret levels. Contact Treasury Board: 1-877-636-0656.
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Government Program Administration Standards ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Government program administrators must comply with accountability frameworks, performance reporting, audit requirements, and service delivery standards. Government program administration standards for federal contractors. Service standards. Reporting requirements. Performance measurement. Contact Treasury Board: 1-877-636-0656.
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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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