All businesses in Toronto need to secure the proper licences, permits and inspections prior to opening or operating. The information below is intended to assist and determine the licensing and permit requirements needed to open and operate a business.

As of November 1, 2018, Municipal Licensing and Standards requires “Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Checks” for all applications and renewals. “Criminal Record Checks” will not be accepted.

Federal, provincial and municipal requirements vary for each business licence type. You can also search for specific regulations by business type.

Regulatory Requirements

For more information on regulatory requirements, type in your business type (e.g. restaurant, adult entertainment or daycare) in the search box below.

Business Type Municipal Requirements Provincial Requirements Federal Requirements
Accounting – Bookkeeper Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements

Acupuncture Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Adult Daycare – People With Disabilities Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

First Aid Training (CPR Level A)

Business Registration

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Adult Entertainment Facilities / Exotic Club / Strip Club Municipal Operating Licence (Nightclub/Entertainment Establishments LicenceAdult Entertainer (Dancer) Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Musical Performance Rights Licences (SOCAN)

Advertising and Promotion Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Canadian Code of Advertising Standards

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Alternative / Complimentary Health Care Municipal Operating Licence (Holistic Practitioner Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Health Canada – Natural Health Products

Health Canada Health Products and Food

Animal Grooming / Daycare Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Environmental Assessment (if animals are on the premises)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Animal Shelter – Boarding School Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Environmental Assessment (if animals are on the premises)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Appliances / Electronics Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Trade Certification (non-mandatory)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Arborist / Landscaping Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Landscape/Tree Cut Permits

Business Registration

Workplace Safety & Insurance Board

Electrical Safety Authority (required when installing outdoor lighting that exceeds plugging into a receptacle)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Arcades – Pay to Play Places of Amusements Municipal Operating Licence (Arcades & Pay-to-Play Places of Amusement Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Architectural Practice Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Membership Requirements Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Architectural Technologist – Licence Technologist Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Building Code Identification Number 

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Aromatherapy Clinic Municipal Operating Licence (Holistic Centre & Practitioner Licences)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Art Gallery Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Arts and Crafts Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Auctions / Auctioneer Municipal Operating Licence (Auctioneer Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Automotive Repair Shop Municipal Operating Licence (Automotive Repair Shop Licences)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Environmental Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Auto Wrecking Municipal Operating Licence (Tow Truck Licences)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Class C Garage Licence

OMVIC Licensing (if applicable)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Home Health-Care Agency Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Home Inspection Service Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Home Stay Agency Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Homeopathic Services Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Hot Dog / Food / Refreshment Cart Municipal Operating Licence (Food Trucks / Food Carts / Ice Cream Trucks Licence)

Sidewalk Café Permit

Food Handler Certification

Food Cart Inspection

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Hotel Municipal Operating Licence (Eating and Drinking Establishment LicenceSmoke Shop Licence [if applicable])

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Musical Performance Rights Licences

Music Sound Licence

Bar Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Bars & Pubs Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Security Guard licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Musical Performance Rights Licences

Music Sound Licence

Boat Cleaning Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Workplace Safety & Insurance Board

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Calling Cards – Pre-Paid Long Distance Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Canoe / Sailboards Rental Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Safety Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Car Dealerships – New & Used Municipal Operating Licence (Car Dealership Licences [required if performing automobile body repairs and running a used car dealership])

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

OMVIC Registration (Both dealers and salespeople)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Car Rental Agency Municipal Operating Licence (Drive-Self Rental Owner licence [Car/truck rental/operators must obtain this licence. Must have class “G” driver’s licence to apply for municipal licence])

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Cartage & Moving Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Catering Municipal Operating Licence (required if the business has a location)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Charter Boat Services Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Licensing & Ship Registration

Chemicals & Paints Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training (if applicable)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Chimney Sweep Business Municipal Operating Licence (Chimney Repairman Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Chiropractic Services Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

National Examinations (CCEB)

Compliance with the X-ray Safety Code (if applicable)

Provincial Board Exam

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) (only if selling merchandise)

National Board Exam

 

Church / Place of Worship Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration (registered as non-profit organizations) Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Cigars / Cigarettes / Tobacco Municipal Operating Licence (Smoke Shop Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Circuses & Carnivals Municipal Operating Licence (Circus Permit)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Cleaning / Exterior Building Cleaning / Janitorial Municipal Operating Licence (Building Cleaner Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training (if applicable)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Clothing Store Consignment Municipal Operating Licence (Second-Hand Salvage Yards & Shops Licences)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Clothing / Fashion Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Textile Labeling & Advertising Regulations

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if manufacturing leather goods)

Coffee / Tea Shop Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Grocery, Variety & Retail Stores Selling Food Licences)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Musical Performance Rights Licences

Music Sound Licence

Coffee Bean Roasting Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Grocery, Variety & Retail Stores Selling Food Licence))

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Coin-Operated Vending Machines Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Collection Agency Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Provincial Permits & Licences

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Computer Hardware Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Construction Trade Municipal Operating Licence (depends on services offered)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Workplace Safety & Insurance Board

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Consulting / Consultant Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Contractor / Handyman Drain Contractor licence (if applicable)

Driveway Paving Contractor licence (if applicable)

Fire Hydrant Flow Test licence (if applicable)

Heating Contractor licence (if applicable)

Plumbing & Heating Contractor licence (if applicable)

Plumbing Contractor licence (if applicable)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Workplace Safety & Insurance Board

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Copy Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Courier (Trucks) Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Collection Agency Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Crime Scene Clean Up / Biohazard Decontamination Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Transportation of Dangerous Goods Permit

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Customs Broker Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Customs Broker Professional & Customs Brokerage Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Dance Studio Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Dating Service Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Daycare / Day Nursery / Seasonal Camps Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

First Aid Training (CPR Level C)

Business Registration

Child Care Licensing (if applicable)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Bake Shop Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Grocery, Variety & Retail Stores Selling Food Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Environmental Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Beauty Supplies / Cosmetics Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Health Canada Cosmetics Regulations

Bed and Breakfast Municipal Operating Licence (required for kitchen)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Liability Insurance

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Bicycle Rental Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Billiard Hall / Pool Hall Municipal Operating Licence (Billiards Hall / Pool Hall LicenceRestaurants, Cafes, Grocery, Variety & Retail Stores Selling Food LicenceSmoke Shops & Stores That Sell Cigars/Cigarettes)

Sidewalk Café Permit

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Musical Performance Rights Licences

Music Sound Licence

Billing Distribution Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Boat Rental  

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training (if applicable)

Commercial Boat Registration (if applicable)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Proof of Competency

Bookstore Marketing Display Permit (if applicable)

Municipal Operating Licence (required for used bookstores)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Bottled Water Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Bowling Alley Municipal Operating Licence (Bowling Alley Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Musical Performance Rights Licences

Music Sound Licence

Brewing Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

ChemTRAC

Business Registration

Licence Requirements 

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Building Repairs Municipal Operating Licence (Building Renovators Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Building Permit

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Butcher Shop Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Education Training Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Electricians / Electrical Contractors Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Provincial Electrical Contractor’s Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Delicatessen Municipal Operating Licence (Grocery, Variety & Other Retail Food Store Licence)

Marketing Display Permit (if applicable)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Canada Food Inspection Agency

Music Sound Licence

Designers – Clothing, Graphic Arts Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

CA Identification Number from Industry Canada (if manufacturing clothing)

Dietitian Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Registration with the College of Dietitians of Ontario

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Dog Walking Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Commercial Dog Walker Permit (If walking from 4 to 6 dogs at a time in the City of Toronto parks, Green-spaces and Waterfront areas)

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Employment Agencies Temporary Help Service Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Engineer Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Professional Engineers Ontario – Licensing & Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Entertainment Business Municipal Operating Licence (Nightclub/Entertainment Establishments Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Musical Performance Rights Licences

Music Sound Licence

Dollar Store Municipal Operating Licence (Grocery, Variety & Other Retail Food Store LicenceSmoke Shop Licence [if applicable])

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Door-to-Door Selling / Itinerant Seller / Pedlar Municipal Operating Licence (Street Vending (Non-Food), Hawker/Pedlar & Assistants Licences)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Driving School / Instructor Municipal Operating Licence (Driving School Operators & Instructors Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Ministry of Transportation Approval of Driving School

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Drone Photography Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Dry Cleaners / Laundromats / Laundry Depots Municipal Operating Licence (Laundromats, Laundry Depots & Dry Cleaning Licences)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Dry Cleaner Environmental Certification and Training

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Environmental Technician Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Licence from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (If handling nuclear energy or materials)

Aesthetics Municipal Operating Licence (Personal Service Setting Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements (mandatory for hairstylists)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Cosmetics Legislation

Event Planning Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Licence

Family Physician Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Licensing of Physicians

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Farming Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Farm Business Registration

Certified Farmer (For use of Class 2 or 3 pesticides)

Bulk Tank Milk Grader Certification

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Financial Planning Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) Licensing and Registration (depending on products offered)

Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) Licensing and Registration (depending on products offered)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Certification

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements

Film / Production – Adult Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Film Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Film / T.V. Production Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Film Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Flea Market Vendor Municipal Operating Licence (Second Hand Shop Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Florist Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Food Carts / Sidewalk Vending Municipal Operating Licence (Food Cart Licence)

Sidewalk Café Permit

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Cart Inspection

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Food Products / Food Processing Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Product Liability Insurance

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Nutritional Labelling

 

Food Truck / Mobile Food Vending Municipal Operating Licence (Food Trucks / Food Carts / Ice Cream Trucks Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Forensic Consultant Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Freelance Writing Business / Freelance Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Freight Brokerage Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Freight Forwarding Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Customs Requirements

Funeral Home Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Bereavement Authority of Ontario Licensing

Board of Funeral Services

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Furniture / Upholstery Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Exporting Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Import/Export Account

Permits (if applicable)

Garage-Service Station Municipal Operating Licence (Car Wash/Gas Station/Public Garage Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Technical Standards and Safety Authority Licensing

Membership Requirements (if applicable)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Gas Station / Car Wash / Car Detailing Municipal Operating Licence (Car Wash/Gas Station/Public Garage Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) Licensing

Membership Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Gift Basket Service Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Go-Karts Municipal Operating Licence (Arcades & Pay-to-Play Places of Amusement Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Amusement Devices Licensing

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Exterminator Insecticide Use Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Operator’s Licence

Structural Exterminator Licence

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training

Pesticide Licences and Permits

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Golf Course / Mini Putt / Driving Range Municipal Operating Licence (Arcades & Pay-to-Play Places of Amusement Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Graphic Designer Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Grocery Store Municipal Operating Licence (Grocery, Variety & Other Retail Food Store Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Immigration Services Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements – Law Society of Ontario

Membership Requirements – College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Guide Dog School Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Trainer Qualifications

Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) Foundation requirements 

Importing Business Animals Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Import Permits (if applicable)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Import/Export Account

Permits from Environment Canada (for species controlled by the government)

Newspaper Publishing Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Hairstyling Barber Municipal Operating Licence (Personal Service Setting Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Body Safe Inspection Program

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Importing Business General Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Import Permits (if applicable)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Import/Export Account

Nightclub Municipal Operating Licence (Nightclub/Entertainment Establishments Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Musical Performance Rights Licences

Non-Profit Organization Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Online Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Optician Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Optician Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Optometrist Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Optometrist Certification

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Organic Food Products / Organic Food Processing Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Product Liability Insurance

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Nutritional Labelling

Compliance with Canada Organic Regime requirements

Orthopaedic Shoes Retail Store Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Painting Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Paralegal Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Paralegal Licensing

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Parking Lots Municipal Operating Licence (Commercial Parking Lot LicencePrivate Parking Enforcement Agency Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Pawn Brokers & Old Gold Dealers Municipal Operating Licence (Jewellery Buyers & Precious Metal Shops Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements

Personal Trainer Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Hairdresser (School) Municipal Operating Licence (Personal Service Setting Licence [required if students provide haircuts to the public])

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

ChemTRAC

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Pet Food Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Pet Shop Municipal Operating Licence (Pet Shop Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Pharmaceuticals Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Pharmacist Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Licensing & Store Accreditation

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Health Fitness Centre Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Photographer Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Indoor Playground Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

First Aid Training (CPR Level C)

Business Registration

Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Health Care Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) (only if selling merchandise or any retail products, including pharmaceuticals)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Insulation Installer Insulation Installer Permit

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Insurance Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) licence

Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Ontario licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) (if applicable)

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements 

Heating Contractor / Heating Installer Municipal Operating Licence (Heating Contractor Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) Licensing

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

HRAI Certification

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Herb Farm Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Agricorp Registration (farms with gross revenue of $7,000 or more)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Herbal Bodycare / Medical Herbalist Municipal Operating Licence (Food Store Licence [if selling vitamins or other supplements])

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Real Estate Agent Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Real Estate Agent Licensing

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements

Renovator Municipal Operating Licence (Building Renovators Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Building Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Rental Placement Agency Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Retail Store (Non-Food) Retail Store Authorization

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Retirement Homes Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority Licensing

Health Inspections

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Roofing Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Rooming House Municipal Operating Licence (Multi-Tenant Homes [Rooming Houses] Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Restaurant / Cafes / Bars / Pubs Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Bars & Pubs Licence)

Sidewalk Café Permit

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Sandwich Shop / Deli Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Bars & Pubs Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Schools E.S.L. / Language Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Private School Registration

Notice of Intention to Operate a Private School (NOI)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Schools Private Vocational Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Private School Registration

Notice of Intention to Operate a Private School (NOI)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Scrap Collector Municipal Operating Licence (Second Hand Salvage Yard)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Second Hand & Salvage Shops Municipal Operating Licence (Second-Hand Salvage Yards & Shops Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Security Guard Service Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Security Guard Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Seniors’ Nursing Agency Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Shelter Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Shoe Repair Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Sign Painter Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

ChemTRAC

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Skate Rink Roller, Ice Municipal Operating Licence (Arcades & Pay-to-Play Places of Amusement Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Ice Skating Coaches Certification

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Solid Waste Management Municipal Operating Licence (Second Hand Salvage Yard Licence [if applicable])

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

ChemTRAC

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Social Media Marketing Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Interior Designers Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Internet Cafe Municipal Operating Licence (Arcades & Pay-to-Play Places of Amusement Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Internet Based Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Investment Dealer Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Ontario Securities Commission Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements

Spa Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Municipal Operating Licence (Personal Service Setting Licence)

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Sporting Goods Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Street Vending Municipal Operating Licence (Street Vending (Non-Food), Hawker/Pedlar & Assistants LicencesFood Trucks / Food Carts / Ice Cream Trucks Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Jeweller Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements

Swimming Pool / Public Bath Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Public Health Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Karaoke Lounge Municipal Operating Licence (Arcades & Pay-to-Play Places of Amusement Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Musical Performance Rights Licences

Lawn Care Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Pesticide Licences

Operator’s Licence

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Lawyer / Legal Services Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Lawyer and Paralegal Licensing

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Leasing Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Limousines Livery Cab Municipal Operating Licence (Limousine Service Company, Owner & Driver Licences)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Liquor Store / Beer Store / Liquor Delivery Service Municipal Operating Licence (Liquor Store Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Liquor Delivery Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Locksmith Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Lottery Permit Municipal Operating Licence (Lottery Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Lottery Registration (AGCO)

Lottery & Gaming Licences (for businesses operating as non- profit/charitable/religious organizations that hold bingo, raffle, break-open ticket, or bazaar lottery events)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Tailoring / Sewing / Alterations Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Tanning Salon Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Tattoo and Micropigmentation / Body Piercing Municipal Operating Licence (Personal Service Setting Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Taxicab Municipal Operating Licence (Toronto Taxicab Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Tour Bus Operations Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Class B Drivers Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Tour Guiding Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Required Registration

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Class B Drivers Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Tow Truck Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Tow Truck Certification

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Translators / Interpreters / Terminologists Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Travel Agency Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Registration with the Travel Industry Council of Ontario

Required Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Trucking Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Class “A” drivers Licence

“Z” Endorsement (for vehicles with airbrakes)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Truck Driving School Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Class “A” drivers Licence

“Z” endorsement (for vehicles with airbrakes)

Fleet Driver Training

Cab Truck Driving Instructor Course

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

T-Shirt Printing Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Physiotherapist Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Pizza Shop Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Grocery, Variety & Retail Stores Selling Food Licences)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Plumber Plumbing Contractor

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Membership Requirements

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Private Investigator Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Private Investigator Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Produce Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Property Developer Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Building Permits

Development Approval Application (if necessary)

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Psychologist Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Publishing Books Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

ISBN Application

Legal Deposit Program (submission to Library & Archives Canada)

Publishing Magazines Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

ISSN Application

Legal Deposit Program (submission to Library & Archives Canada)

Variety / Convenience Store Municipal Operating Licence (Grocery, Variety & Other Retail Food Store Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Lottery Retailer Registration

Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) Lottery Retailer Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Veterinarian Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

College of Veterinarians of Ontario Licensing

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Video Equipment / Games / Production Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Visual Arts Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Warehousing / Storage Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Waste Reduction & Recycling Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Website Design Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Waterproofing Municipal Operating Licence (Building Renovators Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Welding Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

ChemTRAC

Business Registration

Certification and Qualifications

Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) Licensing

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Wholesale Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Window Cleaning Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training

CVOR Certificate and Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Wireless Money Transfer Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements

Wireless Phone Service Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Telecommunication Registration

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Tutoring Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Mail Order Direct Mail Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Manufacturing Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Marine Engine Repair Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Massage Therapy Practice Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

ChemTRAC

Business Registration

Massage Therapist Certification

Professional Liability Insurance

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Medical Diagnostic Lab Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Provincial Licence (to operate a lab)

Laboratory & Specimen Collection Centre Licensing

Ontario Laboratory Accreditation

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Medical Services Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Medical Walk-in Clinic Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Certificate of Registration for Independent Practice

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) (only if selling merchandise or any retail products, including pharmaceuticals)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Money Exchange / Foreign Exchange Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements

Mortgage Brokers Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Movie Theatre / Concert Hall / Public Hall / Banquet Hall Municipal Operating Licence (Movie Theatre LicencePublic Halls and Banquet Halls Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Food Handler Certification

Food Premises Inspection

Business Registration

Liquor Licence

Smart Serve Certificate

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Moving Sale Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Moving and Storage Services Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Music Teacher / Instructor Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Musical Recording / Publishing Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

ISMN Application

Legal Deposit Program (submission to Library & Archives Canada)

Musician / Music Band Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Musical Performance Rights Licences

Application & Software Developer Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Video Store Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Film Exchange Retail Licence

Film Distributor Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Cash Money / Payday Loan Municipal Operating Licence (Payday Loan Establishment Licence)

Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Lender or Loan Broker Licence

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Music Sound Licence

Medical Cannabis (Marijuana) / Cannabis Retail Store Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration

Retail Operator Licence

Retail Store Authorization

Cannabis Retail Manager Licence

Training

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

Federal Licences (see section 5.2)

Music Sound Licence

Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)

Mobile Pet Business Zoning Requirements

Sign Permits

Business Registration Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)

 

Not all businesses require a licence or permit with the city of Toronto. Examples include:

  • accounting offices
  • catering services (not to the public)
  • cheque-cashing business
  • clothing stores
  • consulting business or firms
  • dance studios
  • daycare
  • dental offices
  • flower shops
  • fortune tellers/tarot readers
  • gyms, fitness centres and personal trainers – that do not sell food
  • import/export businesses
  • law offices
  • medical clinics
  • medical supplies stores
  • registered massage therapist (RMT)
  • retail and products stores – that do not sell food (new items only)
  • seniors’/retirement homes
  • tutoring
  • wholesale businesses.

Many other types of businesses are licensed provincially by Service Ontario or federally by Revenue Canada. Visit BizPal, a source for federal and provincial permits and licences, for more information.

When submitting a new application for a business licence, a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check is mandatory and must meet the following criteria:

  • submitted prior to the licence being issued and updated every four years
  • obtained directly through a Canadian Police Service. Checks completed by a third-party agency will not be accepted.
  • Fingerprints will not be accepted. Fingerprints must be taken to a local police station to request a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check.
  • RCMP checks will not be accepted unless you reside outside the Province of Ontario.
  • Checks with an issue date greater than 280 days will not be accepted.

A Criminal Records and Judicial Matters Background Check can be obtained from a Canadian Police Service.

Please check with each Police Service website or call their information line to determine in-person locations and specific application and residency requirements. The below is provided for information only and is subject to change.

Toronto Police Service

Toronto Police Service Customer Service Centre
40 College St., Toronto, M5G 2J3
Phone: 416-808-8240
Website: www.torontopolice.on.ca

York Regional Police

York Regional Police Community Resource Centre
47 Don Hillock Dr, Aurora, L4G 0S7
Phone: 1-866-876-5423 ext. 7655
Website: www.yrp.ca

Durham Regional Police

605 Rossland Rd. E., Box 911, Whitby, ON, L1N 0B8
Phone: 905-579-1520 ext. 4104 or 4105
Website: www.drps.ca

Peel Regional Police

7150 Mississauga Rd., Mississauga, L5N 8M5
Phone: 905-453-2121
ext: 2635 (Mississauga)
ext: 4390 (Brampton)
Website: www.peelpolice.on.ca