Start a Pet Care Services Business in Burnaby Today
This page gives a practical, step-by-step roadmap to launching a pet care (excluding veterinary) services business in Burnaby under NAICS 812910. You’ll get a clear requirements overview, the permits you’ll need, typical startup costs, and a realistic timeline to move from idea to launch. Think dog walking, pet sitting, grooming, and boarding—with friendly guidance every step of the way.
Here are the 5 must-haves to get going: 1) register your BC business name or set up incorporation; 2) apply for a Burnaby business license and confirm zoning if you’ll operate from home or a storefront; 3) secure general liability and pet-care insurance; 4) understand provincial and municipal rules on animal care and waste disposal; 5) prepare client contracts, set clear pricing, and outline a simple launch timeline.
Burnaby’s pet-friendly communities and easy access to Metro Vancouver create a welcoming launchpad. A straightforward licensing process, growing demand for trusted pet care, and local support help your business build trust fast and reach clients who value reliable, compassionate care.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a pet care business in Burnaby is Business Number (BN) Registration. This is a legal requirement you cannot bypass; without a BN you can’t properly file taxes, manage payroll, or invoice clients, and you won’t be able to open a business bank account or interact with federal programs. In short, BN registration is non-negotiable for lawful operation.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: Health and safety come first. You’ll need WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration to protect staff and pets and to cover workplace injuries. Build a simple safety plan, train staff on safe animal handling and sanitation, and maintain a clean, secure space for clients and animals. Permits or licenses Burnaby may require could apply depending on the services you offer, so check city rules to stay compliant.
Business Registration & Tax: You’ll also need to set up BC Business Name Registration if you’re operating as a sole proprietorship or partnership, with your BN used for taxes and payroll. GST/HST Registration may be required once your annual taxable revenue crosses the small-supplier threshold, and Payroll Deductions Registration is needed if you hire employees. These registrations ensure you can legally charge and remit taxes and manage staff payroll.
Encouragement: Start with the basics today—secure your BN, then register your BC business name, and set up GST/HST and payroll as needed. Check Burnaby’s business licensing requirements and set up WorkSafeBC coverage. If you’d like, I can map out a simple, step-by-step plan to get you compliant in the next few weeks and keep you on track.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a pet care (except veterinary) services 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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