Please contact the Planning & Building Services staff to ensure that the commercial property is appropriate for the business you are planning. You must confirm that the Zoning of the property will allow the particular business type and that appropriate parking is available on site. All commercial properties are located in a development permit areas, and therefore, subject to specific regulations regarding signage, new construction and exterior renovations. Note that any commercial business licence application must include the submission of floor plans. In addition to the zoning, the building must be designed for the proposed use and occupancy.  A call to the building department before signing any lease would be prudent. You may find a review of the Land Use Bylaw, Development Permit Guide, and Zoning Map useful.

Anyone who carries on business in the District of Central Saanich requires a business licence. The business licence fees, established in the Business Licence Bylaw, are determined by the type of business conducted. Some approvals or inspections may be required before the licence can be issued. The term of the licence runs to the end of the calendar year.  Business Licence Forms can be obtained online or from the Muncipal Hall.

Anyone intending to operate a "home based business", please ensure that you have read the Home Occupation Regulations, and that you are able to comply. Please note that a licence can not be issued to a resident of a building that contains an unauthorized secondary suite.

If you are conducting any renovations or contemplating a change in use, please contact the Building Department prior to starting so that you can determine if a Building Permit and Inspections are required.

A plumbing permit would be required for any alterations or new installations of a fixture, such as a sink, water closet or dishwasher. In addition, if discharging waste water is part of your business, you may be required to complete and submit the CRD Waste Discharge Assessment Form.  Building/Plumbing Forms can be obtained online or from the Muncipal Hall.

The Fire Department will conduct fire safety inspections for every business licence application; this includes a home occupation business licence. The Fire Department conducts inspections to keep buildings safe for occupants. Fire inspections consist of maintaining life safety systems and devices such as exits, smoke alarms, sprinklers, standpipe systems, fire alarms, emergency lighting and special suppression systems as well as other fire safety issues.

If you are planning new signage, please discuss your plans with the Planning and Building staff and make application for a Sign Permit before making any sign purchase arrangements. New signs would likely require a development permit, and would be reviewed by Council. If you are assuming an existing business, you may wish to contact us to ensure that all signage is authorized. We have provided the Development Permit Guide and Guidelines for Signs to assist you.

To assist you with information from business plans and development, to taxation rules and regulation, visit the links on our Business Forms and Guides page.