Launch Your Other Waste Collection Business in Burnaby Today
This page helps you start an Other Waste Collection business (NAICS 562119) in Burnaby. You’ll get a practical, step-by-step overview of the five requirements, the permits you’ll need, typical start-up costs, and a realistic timeline from business registration to your first route. It’s written in plain language with actionable checks so you can move fast without getting overwhelmed.
Key details you’ll learn include the five core requirements, how to apply for a Burnaby municipal business license, any provincial waste-hauler registrations, vehicle and driver requirements, insurance, and environmental/safety plans. We’ll break down costs (licensing, insurance, equipment), plus a realistic timeline for approvals, onboarding, and launching service. You’ll also see practical tips to gather documents quickly and avoid common delays.
Burnaby’s strategic location near Vancouver, access to a large customer base, and a cooperative regulatory environment make it a solid place to launch an orderly, compliant waste-collection business with local support and streamlined permit processing.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a waste collection business in Burnaby is WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration. If you hire even one employee, you must have coverage; it's a legal requirement and you cannot operate legally without it. This is non-negotiable and forms the foundation of safe, compliant operations. Contact WorkSafeBC early to confirm what coverage you need for your crew and vehicles, and get it in place before you start hiring or running routes.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: Health, safety, and permits. Prioritize safety protocols, training, PPE, vehicle safety, and incident reporting. Burnaby may require permits or licenses for waste collection activities or for operating in certain zones; check with the City. Ensure your drivers are trained, your fleet is maintained, and your safety program is documented. Keeping things organized and up-to-date will help you run smoothly and avoid costly delays.
Business Registration & Tax: BN, BC name, GST/HST, Payroll. You'll need a Business Number (BN) from the CRA to handle taxes and payroll. If you’re using a business name, register it with BC (BC Business Name Registration) for Sole Proprietorship/Partnership. Register for GST/HST if your revenue crosses the threshold or if you expect to reach it. If you have employees, set up Payroll Deductions with the CRA and manage withholdings accordingly.
Next steps and encouragement: Start with WorkSafeBC, CRA, and BC Registry, then check Burnaby’s licensing pages to understand local permits. Apply for the necessary business name registration and tax accounts, and set up any required payroll or GST/HST arrangements. If you’d like, I can tailor a practical, step-by-step checklist with timelines to help you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a other waste collection 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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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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