Starting a Business in Central Saanich

A business licence must be obtained prior to starting a business in the District of Central Saanich. Business licence regulation is necessary to ensure that all businesses operate only where the land is suitably zoned for the operation, and so that the premises are safe for both the employees and the public.

The business licence fee, which varies depending on the type and size of the business, covers the cost of site inspections, licence administration and bylaw enforcement.

If for any reason, the proposed business location does not conform to the applicable regulations, the applicant will be advised promptly of the deficiencies. The applicant will be required to correct the deficiencies prior to the business licence being issued.

Business Licence applications must be submitted to the Planning and Building Services Department. Please note that this is an application only. If your application is approved, you will receive an invoice by mail from the Finance Department, and will receive the licence, by mail, once payment has been received.

Business Licence renewal notices, for the following year, are mailed out each December. It is imperative that you inform the Planning and Building Services Department, as soon as possible, of any changes to your original application information, such as change of ownership, address change or that you are no longer in business. Any change of address, within Central Saanich, will require you to submit a new business licence application. Also note that being granted a Central Saanich Business Licence does not relieve you from the obligation to comply with all other Municipal, Provincial and Federal regulations.

In order to obtain a Business Licence in the District of Central Saanich, various departmental approvals are required. On our Business Licence Process page you will find the step process along with the various forms, applications and applicable links.