Start Your National Security Business in Richmond Today
This page provides a practical roadmap for launching a National Security business (NAICS 928110) in Richmond. You’ll find a clear overview of the 8 requirements you’ll need to meet, the permits and licenses involved, and a realistic cost and timeline to get started. We translate complex regulatory steps into simple actions, so you can move confidently from idea to compliant operation.
Learn exactly what you’ll need to set up: an 8-step requirements checklist, how to obtain the necessary permits, insurance and compliance considerations, and how to plan for government contracts. We break down typical start-up costs—from registrations to essential security-specific licenses—and map out a practical timeline so you can track progress and stay on schedule.
Richmond’s strategic location near Vancouver offers easy access to federal and provincial opportunities, a strong business network, and solid infrastructure that supports security services. It’s a practical base for growing a national security practice.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a business in Richmond is a Business Licence. This licence is issued by the City of Richmond and you cannot legally run your business without it. It is non-negotiable and must be in place before you start trading. In addition to the licence, you’ll also need key registrations to operate properly, including obtaining a Business Number (BN) and registering your BC Business Name if you’re a sole proprietor or in a partnership.
For day-to-day operations, you’ll want to plan for mandatory health, safety, and compliance requirements. This includes WorkSafeBC coverage and registration to protect your employees and meet provincial rules. If your work involves certain security or confidential programs, you may also encounter Security Clearance and Screening, along with Government Program Administration Standards. These items are about safeguarding people, information, and government contracts, and they’re not optional if they apply to your business.
On the registration and tax side, you’ll need to align your business with BN and BC Business Name registration, plus GST/HST registration. The BN covers federal tax interactions, while the BC Business Name registration (for sole proprietorships or partnerships) ensures your name is legally recognized in the province. If your revenue meets the threshold, GST/HST registration is also required, helping you collect and remit sales tax appropriately.
If you’re ready to move forward, start with your City of Richmond licence application, then line up your BN and BC Business Name registrations, and explore GST/HST requirements. Gather any needed documents, set up the right registrations, and consider a quick consult with a local business advisor if you’d like a tailored checklist. You’ve got this—taking these steps now will set a solid, compliant foundation.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a national security in Richmond:
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Richmond. Apply to City of Richmond 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 Richmond Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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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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