![]() |
|
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
|
QuicklinksHow to Apply for a Business licence If you are planning to operate a business in the City of Victoria, you will need to apply for a business licence from City Hall. Below are steps to help guide you through the process. For more information, please contact us. STEP 1: Select a Location Zoning Legal Use A print copy of the City of Victoria Bylaw may be obtained free of charge from the Public Service Centre located at Victoria City Hall on the corner of Douglas Street and Pandora Avenue. Hours of operation: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. At this time, the City of Victoria Bylaw is not available online. STEP 2: Prepare Paperwork Depending on the type of business, there are a number of supporting documents that are required when submitting a business licence application, including:
STEP 3: Confirm the Application Fee The fee for a business licence application varies depending on the type of business you plan to operate. To find out which fee applies to your business, contact the City of Victoria at (250) 361-0572 or Email Us STEP 4: Complete a Business Application Form Business application forms are available at Victoria City Hall as well as for downloading.
Once complete, the form and any supporting documentation are to be submitted in person to the Public Service Centre at Victoria City Hall. The application fee is payable upon submission of the business application form and supporting documents. The application fee may be paid by cash, debit, Master Card, VISA, American Express or cheque. Cheques are to be made payable to: "City of Victoria". A receipt will be issued. If your application is not approved, the application fee will be refunded in full. If you cannot submit the application and payment in person at City Hall, a representative may do so on your behalf. For more information on the business licence application process, see the Doing Business in the City of Victoria pamphlet - [PDF 545KB] STEP 5: Wait for Processing A business licence application takes approximate 10 working days to process, as a number of City of Victoria departments must review and approve an application before a business licence can be issued. Approval is also required when the use of a business premise is changed, a property is developed, or building additions are undertaken, in order to ensure compliance with bylaws and regulations. See Permit Requirements. The Capital Regional District, and Provincial and Federal governments may also have additional requirements that must be met before a business can legally operate. See the Business Start Up Links. If your application is missing information or requires clarification, you will be contacted by phone. Once your business licence application is approved, you will receive a business licence by mail. Other Business Requirements Helpful information is also available on:
Business Start Up Links There are agencies and services available to assist you with your business start-up needs:
Business Licence Renewal Payment Options If you operate a business in Victoria, you are required to have a valid business licence, which must be renewed annually. Each November, you will receive a Business Licence Renewal Invoice in the mail which is payable by January 15 of the following year. Businesses that operate without a valid business licence may be fined. REMINDER: After February 15, a late fee of $25 will apply to all expired business licences and must be paid in order for a 2010 licence to be issued. Operating a business without a valid licence may result in a fine of $100 per day. Business licence renewal payments can be made:
Your business licence will be issued upon receipt of payment. If a bank returns a cheque to the City of Victoria, a processing charge will be applied. Changes to Your Business Licence If you have moved your business location or are a new owner, please contact the City of Victoria at (250) 361-0572. If you receive a Business Licence Renewal Invoice but your business has ceased to operate, please sign and return the Invoice, stating "CLOSED", or contact the City of Victoria at (250) 361-0572. Contact Us For more information, contact: City of Victoria Hours of Operation: Business Licence Inspector Bylaw Enforcement Permits and Inspections Planning and Zoning Or Email Us |
ABOUT TRUST ONLINE |