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.
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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Adult Daycare – People With Disabilities | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Adult Entertainment Facilities / Exotic Club / Strip Club | Municipal Operating Licence (Nightclub/Entertainment Establishments Licence | Adult Entertainer (Dancer) Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Advertising and Promotion | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | 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
Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) Licensing and Registration (if applicable) |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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 |
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 | 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) |
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 | 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
OMVIC Licensing (if applicable) |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Home Health-Care Agency | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) Licensing and Registration (if applicable) |
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)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Hotel | Municipal Operating Licence (varies depending on hotel setup – may include Eating and Drinking Establishment Licence | Smoke Shop Licence [if applicable])
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Bar | Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Bars & Pubs Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Boat Cleaning | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | 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 | 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) |
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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Charter Boat Services | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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
National Examinations (CCEB) Compliance with the X-ray Safety Code (if applicable) |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) (only if selling merchandise)
|
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) |
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) |
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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Coin-Operated Vending Machines | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Collection Agency | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | 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 | 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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Copy Business | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Courier (Trucks) | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business 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 |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Customs Broker Business | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Dance Studio | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Dating Service | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Daycare / Day Nursery / Seasonal Camps | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Child Care Licensing (if applicable) |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Bake Shop | Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Grocery, Variety & Retail Stores Selling Food Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Beauty Supplies / Cosmetics | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Bed and Breakfast | Municipal Operating Licence (required for kitchen)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Liability Insurance |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Bicycle Rental | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Billiard Hall / Pool Hall | Municipal Operating Licence (Billiards Hall / Pool Hall Licence | Restaurants, Cafes, Grocery, Variety & Retail Stores Selling Food Licence | Smoke Shops & Stores That Sell Cigars/Cigarettes)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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) |
Bookstore | Marketing Display Permit (if applicable)
Municipal Operating Licence (required for used bookstores) Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Brewing Business | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Building Repairs | Municipal Operating Licence (Building Renovators Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Butcher Shop | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Delicatessen | Municipal Operating Licence (Grocery, Variety & Other Retail Food Store Licence)
Marketing Display Permit (if applicable) Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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 | 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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Entertainment Business | Municipal Operating Licence (Nightclub/Entertainment Establishments Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Dollar Store | Municipal Operating Licence (Grocery, Variety & Other Retail Food Store Licence | Smoke 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 | 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 | 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)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Event Planning | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Family Physician | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Farming | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Certified Farmer (For use of Class 2 or 3 pesticides) |
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 Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) 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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Film / T.V. Production Business | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Flea Market Vendor | Municipal Operating Licence (Second Hand Shop Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Florist | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Food Carts / Sidewalk Vending | Municipal Operating Licence (Food Cart Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Food Products / Food Processing | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits Product Liability Insurance |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable)
|
Food Truck / Mobile Food Vending | Municipal Operating Licence (Food Trucks / Food Carts / Ice Cream Trucks Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Funeral Home | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Bereavement Authority of Ontario Licensing Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
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 | 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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Gift Basket Service | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Go-Karts | Municipal Operating Licence (Arcades & Pay-to-Play Places of Amusement Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Exterminator – Insecticide Use | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Structural Exterminator Licence Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training |
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 |
Business Registration | 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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Immigration Services | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Membership Requirements – College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants |
Guide Dog School | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Optometrist | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Organic Food Products / Organic Food Processing | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits Product Liability Insurance |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Orthopaedic Shoes – Retail Store | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Parking Lots | Municipal Operating Licence (Commercial Parking Lot Licence | Private 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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
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 | 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) |
Photographer | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Indoor Playground | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services Requirements |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Health Care | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) Licensing and Registration |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) (only if selling merchandise or any retail products, including pharmaceuticals)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Insulation Installer | Insulation Installer Permit
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Insurance | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) licence Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) Licensing and Registration |
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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
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 | 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 |
Business Registration | 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 |
Business Registration | 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)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Sandwich Shop / Deli | Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Bars & Pubs Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Schools – E.S.L. / Language | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Schools – Private Vocational | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | 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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Seniors’ Nursing Agency | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Shelter | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
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 |
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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Solid Waste Management | Municipal Operating Licence (Second Hand Salvage Yard Licence [if applicable])
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
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 |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Internet Based Business | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Investment Dealer | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) requirements |
Spa | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits Municipal Operating Licence (Personal Service Setting Licence) |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
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 Licences | Food 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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Karaoke Lounge | Municipal Operating Licence (Arcades & Pay-to-Play Places of Amusement Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Lawn Care 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) |
Lawyer / Legal Services | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | 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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Liquor Store / Beer Store / Liquor Delivery Service | Municipal Operating Licence (Liquor Store Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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) |
Short-Term Rental Operators/Hosts (Homes or Rooms for Rent for Less than 28 Days) | Municipal Operating Licence (Short-Term Rental Operators/Hosts)
Municipal Accommodation Tax report filing Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | 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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Tour Bus Operations | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Tour Guiding | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Tow Truck | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | 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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Trucking Business | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
CVOR Certificate and Registration “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 “Z” endorsement (for vehicles with airbrakes) |
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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Pizza Shop | Municipal Operating Licence (Restaurants, Cafes, Grocery, Variety & Retail Stores Selling Food Licences)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Plumber | Plumbing Contractor
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Private Investigator | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Produce Business | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Property Developer | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits Development Approval Application (if necessary) |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Property Manager / Lessor of Real Estate | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Psychologist | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Publishing Books | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Legal Deposit Program (submission to Library & Archives Canada) |
Publishing Magazines | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
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 |
Business Registration
Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) Lottery Retailer Registration |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Veterinarian | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | 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 |
Business Registration | 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 |
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 | 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 | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Massage Therapy Practice | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Massage Therapist Certification Professional Liability Insurance |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Medical Diagnostic Lab | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration
Provincial Licence (to operate a lab) |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Medical Services | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Environment and Climate Change Canada Permits (if applicable) |
Medical Walk-in Clinic | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) (only if selling merchandise or any retail products, including pharmaceuticals)
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 Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) Licensing and Registration |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Movie Theatre / Concert Hall / Public Hall / Banquet Hall | Municipal Operating Licence (Movie Theatre Licence | Public Halls and Banquet Halls Licence)
Zoning Requirements Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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) |
Musical Recording / Publishing | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Legal Deposit Program (submission to Library & Archives Canada) |
Musician / Music Band | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
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
Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) Licensing and Registration |
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) |
Medical Cannabis (Marijuana) / Cannabis Retail Store | Zoning Requirements
Sign Permits |
Business Registration | Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)
Federal Licences (see section 5.2) 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:
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:
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 Customer Service Centre
40 College St., Toronto, M5G 2J3
Phone: 416-808-8240
Website: www.torontopolice.on.ca
York Regional Police Community Resource Centre
47 Don Hillock Dr, Aurora, L4G 0S7
Phone: 1-866-876-5423 ext. 7655
Website: www.yrp.ca
605 Rossland Rd. E., Box 911, Whitby, ON, L1N 0B8
Phone: 905-579-1520 ext. 4104 or 4105
Website: www.drps.ca
7150 Mississauga Rd., Mississauga, L5N 8M5
Phone: 905-453-2121
ext: 2635 (Mississauga)
ext: 4390 (Brampton)
Website: www.peelpolice.on.ca