Start Your Video Tape and Disc Rental Business in Burnaby Today
This page lays out a practical path to launching a video tape and disc rental business (NAICS 532282) in Burnaby. Discover the five essential requirements, the permits you’ll likely need, and a clear view of startup costs and a realistic timeline. Get a concise, actionable plan you can follow from day one.
Five core requirements guide the setup: register the business, obtain a Burnaby municipal business license, arrange basic insurance, organize inventory and storage, and choose rental software to track items. You’ll learn about permits (municipal licenses and possible signage or occupancy permits), typical startup costs (inventory, space, and software), and a practical timeline—from registration to first-day operations. Tips on pricing, policies, and local demand help you plan confidently.
Burnaby is a great fit for video rental ventures with active communities, nearby Vancouver access, and strong demand for home entertainment options. The city’s business-friendly climate, affordable spaces, and proximity to schools and events create steady opportunities. With the right permits, a smart location, and friendly service, you can launch smoothly and start serving local customers quickly.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a video tape and disc rental business in Burnaby is Business Number (BN) Registration. This is a federal requirement from the Canada Revenue Agency, and you cannot legally run a business or handle taxes, payroll, or government filings without a BN. It’s non-negotiable and forms the foundation for all government interactions.
Mandatory Operational Requirements: Health and safety. If you hire employees, you must have WorkSafeBC coverage and be registered with WorkSafeBC. This protects workers and keeps you compliant with BC law. Also establish clear safety practices, training, and reporting procedures to keep your workspace safe and compliant, even for a small operation.
Business Registration & Tax: You’ll also need BC Business Name Registration if you plan to operate under a name other than your own; this is separate from the BN. GST/HST Registration may be required if your annual taxable supplies exceed the threshold, or you may choose to register voluntarily. Payroll Deductions Registration applies if you have employees, to handle withholdings for income tax, CPP/EI, and related payroll taxes.
Encouragement: Next steps: decide your business structure, check name availability, apply for your BN, and register your BC business name if needed. Then assess GST/HST needs and set up payroll registrations if you have staff, plus WorkSafeBC coverage. Gather documents, open a business bank account, and consider speaking with a local small-business advisor to map out your launch plan. You’ve got this—take it one step at a time.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a video tape and disc rental 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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