Launch a Private Households Business in Burnaby Today
This page offers a practical, step-by-step guide to starting a Private Households business in Burnaby (NAICS 814110). It provides a concise overview of the five requirements, the permits you’ll likely need from the City of Burnaby, typical startup costs, and a realistic timeline to launch. You’ll also get tips on planning and staying compliant from day one.
You’ll learn exactly what to secure: 1) register your business name or form a legal entity with BC Corporate Registry, 2) obtain a Burnaby business license, 3) set up GST/HST and payroll accounts with the CRA, 4) ensure compliance with employment standards and WorkSafeBC for any staff, and 5) arrange appropriate liability insurance and, if needed, bonding. We’ll also explain ongoing costs like license renewal, insurance, and bookkeeping, plus how to estimate your monthly expenses. Typical timelines range from 2-6 weeks to complete registrations and licenses.
Burnaby’s community is a great fit for private households services—families and seniors who value reliable in-home support, plus it's close to Vancouver with a vibrant small-business scene and helpful resources. With five clear requirements, a sensible budget, and a practical timeline, you can start serving Burnaby households confidently and quickly.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a private household business in Burnaby is the Business Number (BN) Registration. This is a non-negotiable, federal requirement you cannot legally operate or invoice clients without. A BN creates the official account you’ll use to handle tax and government filings, so getting it set up early is essential.
Next, focus on mandatory operational needs, especially health and safety. If you have workers or helpers, you must have WorkSafeBC coverage and registration to protect everyone and stay compliant with workplace safety rules. This is the core safety obligation for employers in British Columbia and applies even in a home setting if you hire staff or contractors.
For business registration and taxes, you’ll need to consider BC Business Name Registration if you plan to operate under a name other than your own. You’ll also need the BN to handle tax matters, including GST/HST and payroll deductions. GST/HST registration is required once your revenue crosses the $30,000 annual threshold (you can register voluntarily earlier). If you have employees, you’ll also need Payroll D deductions registration and to remit the required payroll withholdings.
If you’re ready, next steps are straightforward: apply for your BN with the Canada Revenue Agency, register your BC business name if you’re using a name other than yours, decide on GST/HST needs based on your expected revenue, and set up payroll deductions if you’ll hire staff. You’re on the path to a compliant, smoothly running business—take it one step at a time and you’ll build a solid foundation. If you want, I can outline a simple 30-day action plan to get you started.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a private households 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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