Business Regulations, Licences & Permits

As of January 1, 2025, the City will have updated licensing and zoning bylaws for restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. Learn how the changes may impact your business and find available resources.

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.

Regulatory Requirements

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

Regulatory Requirements

Business Registration – Businesses that operate under a name other than the owner’s need to register with Service Ontario. Business name registrations or renewals can be done in-person or online through the Ontario Business Registry. Guidance on registration is available virtually or in-person at Toronto Small Business Enterprise Centre offices. Please note, business registrations are not currently performed by the Toronto Small Business Enterprise Centre.
Zoning Requirements – For inquiries about zoning or uses on a specific property, please visit the nearest Toronto Building Customer Service counter for information.
Sign Permits – Applications can be done in person and online.
Building and Demolition Permit – A permit to begin construction, demolition, addition or renovation on your property.
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) – Registration for HST is optional if you are earning less than $30,000 of sales revenues for the year. You may not charge HST to clients unless you are registered with Canada Revenue Agency.
All businesses serving food are required to comply with the Ontario Food Premises Regulation as well as Toronto’s Licensing By-Law No. 545. Premises must receive a “PASS” status by Toronto Public Health (DineSafe) in order to operate.
Food Handlers Certification is required through your local public health unit for anyone who serves and handles food. While Toronto Public Health has currently suspended the program, you can find alternate authorized program providers for Food Handler Certification through the Ontario Ministry of Health website.
Businesses that have performances, authorize performances or communicate music to the public, require a SOCAN licence.

Business Specific Regulations

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 Licence \| Adult 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 Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) Licensing and Registration (if applicable)	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 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) Sidewalk Café Permit Food Handler Certification Food Cart Inspection 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 Food Handler Certification Food Premises Inspection Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT)	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
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 Licence \| Restaurants, Cafes, Grocery, Variety & Retail Stores Selling Food Licence \| Smoke 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)
Drivers for Private Transportation Companies (including Uber, Lyft, etc.)	Municipal Operating Licence obtained via the Private Transportation Company (PTC) on your behalf Completion of a City-approved driver training program Vehicle compliance as per City bylaw, including winter tire installation (applicable only December 1 to April 30), Watch for Bike notice, PTC identifier and age of vehicle no more than seven years	Business Registration CVOR Certificate and Registration Safety Standards Certificate	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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) Licensing and 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 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 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 [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 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 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)
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 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)
Property Manager / Lessor of Real Estate	Zoning Requirements Sign Permits Compliance with Property Standards Bylaw	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) 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 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 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 Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) Licensing and Registration	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)

Businesses That Do Not Require a Municipal Operating Licence

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.

Criminal Record & Judicial Matters Checks

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