How to Launch a Private Households Business in Victoria
This page provides a practical, step-by-step guide to starting a Private Households business (NAICS 814110) in Victoria. You’ll get a clear overview of the six requirements, the permits and registrations you’ll need, typical startup costs, and a realistic timeline from setup to launch. Use this page as your action plan to move confidently from idea to operating your in-home services company.
What you’ll learn: a six-step requirements checklist, how to handle permits and registrations in Victoria, potential startup costs (insurance, licensing, marketing, and basic supplies), and a clear timeline to get your business up and running. We’ll also touch on ongoing compliance and simple tips to stay organized as you land your first clients.
Victoria is a great fit for private households services, with a family-friendly community, steady demand for in-home care and housekeeping, and strong local support for new businesses. This city’s collaborative networks and accessible facilities make it easier to build trust with clients and scale your services over time.
Requirements Overview
In Victoria, the most essential requirement to start a private household business is obtaining a Business Licence from your city. This licence is a legal permit to operate within municipal boundaries, and you cannot legally run your business without it. The process and fees vary by city, so contact the City of Victoria (or your local council) to apply and understand any home-based business rules. Also check whether your home workspace fits local zoning rules and whether you need any additional permits.
Mandatory operational requirements cover health, safety, and permits. Make sure your work area is safe and that you protect clients’ privacy and well-being. If you hire employees or contractors, you must register with WorkSafeBC and maintain appropriate coverage, and follow safety practices and record-keeping. Even without staff, align with local by-laws for home businesses, including any parking, signage, and activity limits your municipality may require.
Business Registration & Tax: You’ll need a Canada Revenue Agency Business Number (BN) to handle taxes and government remittances such as GST/HST and payroll. If you operate under a name other than your own, register the BC Business Name for a Sole Proprietorship or Partnership. GST/HST registration is required if your revenue crosses the threshold or if you choose to register; Payroll Deductions Registration is necessary if you have employees and must withhold payroll taxes.
Next steps: map out your plan, check with the City of Victoria for licensing, and set up your BN with the CRA. Review WorkSafeBC requirements and any other provincial or municipal rules. Use official government sites or talk to a local adviser to confirm current requirements and costs. With clear steps and the right approvals, you’ll be on solid, compliant footing and ready to serve clients confidently.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a private households 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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