Launch a Pet Care Services Business in Victoria Today
This page is a practical, friendly guide to starting a pet care services business (non-veterinary) in Victoria. You’ll find a clear overview of what’s required to open, including permits, costs, and a realistic timeline, plus a six-step requirements snapshot to get you moving. It’s aligned with NAICS 812910 for pet care services.
In this guide you’ll learn the six essentials to launch: 1) register the business and obtain a City of Victoria license, 2) confirm zoning or home-based use rules, 3) secure any required animal-care permits for boarding or grooming, 4) arrange general liability insurance, 5) plan staff checks or training, and 6) set up welfare-minded records, waste controls, and safety procedures. We also cover rough costs—license fees, insurance, and basic supplies—and a realistic timeline from a few weeks to a couple of months.
Why Victoria makes sense for pet care: it’s a pet-loving, walkable city with steady demand for trusted care, a supportive small-business scene, and plenty of families and visitors who need reliable services year-round.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a pet care business in Victoria, BC, is the Business Number (BN) Registration. This BN is issued by the Canada Revenue Agency and you cannot legally run your business without it. It serves as the umbrella for your tax accounts, payroll, and other government filings, so treat it as non-negotiable and foundation for everything else.
Mandatory operational requirements cover health, safety, and permits. You’ll need a municipal Business Licence to operate in Victoria, confirming you’re allowed to run a home or storefront pet care service. In addition, WorkSafeBC coverage and registration is required to protect you and any staff from workplace injuries and to meet provincial safety rules. If you hire employees, you’ll also need payroll deductions registration as part of keeping your payroll compliant.
Business registration and tax items come next. Along with your BN, you should register your BC Business Name if you’re operating as a Sole Proprietorship or Partnership. You’ll also handle GST/HST registration with the federal government when your revenue crosses the threshold, and ensure payroll deductions registration is in place if you have employees. Collectively, these steps ensure your business is properly identified, taxed, and prepared to manage staff.
You’re not alone in this—these steps are achievable with a clear plan. Start by obtaining your BN, then secure your Victoria municipal licence and WorkSafeBC coverage. Next, complete BC Business Name registration (if needed) and set up GST/HST and payroll registrations. If you’re unsure, a quick call or chat with a business advisor or the City of Victoria’s small business resources can help you map out the exact forms and timelines. You’ve got this.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a pet care (except veterinary) services in Victoria:
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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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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Victoria. Apply to City of Victoria 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 Victoria Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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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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