Launch a Paint, Varnish, and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers Business in Burnaby
This page lays out a practical, encouraging roadmap for starting a Paint, Varnish, and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers business in Burnaby (NAICS 424950). Learn what you need to get legally up and running, from business registration and tax numbers to a Burnaby municipal license. We map typical startup costs and give a realistic timeline so you can move confidently from idea to inventory on the shelf.
Seven key requirements you'll navigate include: 1) register your business with BC Corporate Registry and decide on the legal structure; 2) obtain a Business Number and register for GST/PST; 3) secure a Burnaby municipal business license; 4) confirm zoning and occupancy for a wholesale warehouse; 5) arrange appropriate insurance and WorkSafeBC coverage; 6) set up supplier terms and, if you import, comply with import/export rules; 7) follow hazardous materials handling and environmental requirements for paints and coatings. Costs vary—licensing fees, insurance, inventory, and lease—and a typical timeline runs about 4–12 weeks depending on permits and space.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a paint, varnish, and supplies merchant wholesaler in Burnaby is Product Safety and Recall Obligations. This is legally required and you cannot legally sell products that don’t meet safety standards or that you can’t recall if a safety issue arises. You must have a system to verify compliance, keep records, and respond quickly when a safety issue is reported. This requirement is non-negotiable and forms the foundation of your business reputation and customer trust.
In day-to-day operations, focus on health, safety, and permits. Ensure you meet product safety and recall obligations and stay up-to-date with safety standards for paints, varnishes, and related products. Register with WorkSafeBC and maintain workers’ compensation coverage; provide proper safety training, safe storage, and handling of hazardous materials, and implement clear fire-safety measures and hazard labeling. If you plan to import or export goods, expect additional controls and registrations to manage cross-border trade.
Business Registration & Tax: Your BN (Business Number) from the Canada Revenue Agency is your central ID for tax and program registrations. If you operate as a sole proprietor or partnership using a name other than your own, you’ll also register your BC Business Name. You may need an Import/Export Business Number if you trade across borders; GST/HST registration for sales tax; and Payroll Deductions Registration if you have employees. Keeping these straight helps you stay compliant and avoid penalties.
Next steps and encouragement: Start by listing which registrations you already have and which you still need. Reach out to the BC Corporate Registry, the CRA, and WorkSafeBC to apply, or work with a local advisor to set up your accounts. Once these are in place, you can confidently grow your Burnaby wholesale business.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a paint, varnish, and supplies merchant wholesalers in Burnaby:
-
Product Safety and Recall Obligations RequiredWholesalers must ensure products meet Canadian safety standards and report serious incidents. Must participate in product recalls and maintain records for traceability. No registration - compliance law. Manufacturers/importers/sellers must ensure products are safe. MANDATORY REPORTING to Health Canada if: death/serious injury occurred or could occur, defects found, inadequate labeling, or recall in other jurisdiction. Keep records 6 years. Penalties: fines, seizure, criminal charges. Report incidents online or call 1-866-662-0666.
-
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).
-
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.
-
Import/Export Business Number ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Wholesalers engaged in importing or exporting goods must register for an import/export account with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) in addition to their CRA Business Number. As of Oct 21, 2024, register RM account through CBSA's CARM Client Portal (not CRA). Need BN9 first - get via CARM or CRA's BRO. FREE registration. Required for importing/exporting commercial goods. Ensure all business names match exactly to avoid border delays. CBSA manages RM accounts; CRA issues BN9. Contact CBSA Border Information Service: 1-800-461-9999.
-
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.
-
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.
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: