Launch Vancouver Security Guards and Patrol Services Today
This page is your practical guide to starting a Security Guards and Patrol Services business in Vancouver (NAICS 561612). It breaks down what you need to launch—from the seven key requirements to the necessary permits, startup costs, and a realistic timeline. Use this action-ready checklist to move from idea to compliant operation.
Here’s what you’ll learn: a clear overview of the 7 requirements, exactly which permits you’ll need, and the typical startup costs (licensing, insurance, background checks, training, and gear). We map out a practical timeline with milestones so you know when you should file, apply, and launch. You’ll also get tips for ongoing compliance as you scale.
Vancouver’s thriving business scene, strong property development, and active events calendar create steady demand for security services. Starting here gives you access to local networks, training resources, and insurers who understand the market. With seven straightforward steps, you can build a trusted, scalable guard and patrol service right from the start.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a security guards and patrol services business in Vancouver is BC Security Worker Licence. This is a legal prerequisite to hire, train, and deploy security personnel in British Columbia, and you cannot legally operate without it. It is non-negotiable and you must obtain and maintain this licence to provide security services in the province.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: In addition to the licence, you’ll need to stay compliant with health and safety rules and essential permits. Health and safety obligations include WorkSafeBC coverage and registration for your workers, along with implementing appropriate safety practices and training. For ongoing operations, you’ll also manage payroll deductions registration and GST/HST registration to align with employment and tax laws.
Business Registration & Tax: You’ll need the official business identifiers to run legally. That means a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency, a Vancouver municipal Business Licence, and BC Business Name Registration if you operate as a Sole Proprietorship or Partnership. If you’ll be charging GST/HST, make sure your tax registrations and filings are set up as part of your BN.
Encouragement: You’re taking solid, actionable steps. Start with securing the BC Security Worker Licence, then complete your business name and municipal licences, set up WorkSafeBC coverage, and get your tax IDs in place. Tackle these steps one by one, and you’ll be well on your way to launching a compliant security services business in Vancouver.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a security guards and patrol services in Vancouver:
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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 Vancouver. Apply to City of Vancouver 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 Vancouver 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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BC Security Worker Licence RequiredProvincial licence required for security guards, private investigators, and armoured car personnel in British Columbia Security Worker Licence from BC Security Programs. Fee: $60 (1-year), $120 (2-year), $180 (3-year), $240 (4-year). Training required: Basic Security Training (BST). Criminal record check required. Apply through Security Industry Licensing Centre. Processing: 4-6 weeks. Contact: 604-660-5228 or 1-888-891-5556.
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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.
Funding & Grants
Available funding programs that may apply to your security guards and patrol services:
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Three-stream grant program for Nunavut-based artists, businesses, and organizations: (1) Getting Started/Arts Creation/Training — supports education, training, art supplies, equipment; (2) Arts and Culture Development — supports collaborative arts initiatives, exhibitions, shows, and touring; (3) Infrastructure Development — supports studios and cultural tourism infrastructure. Annual call for proposals.
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Provided contributions to settlement, employment, and community organizations delivering programs addressing employment barriers for racialized newcomer women, including work placements, mentorships, job counselling, and support for gender- and race-based discrimination. Program renewal ended in 2025; no new open call as of early 2026. Over 2,200 racialized newcomer women were served …
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