Every business in the City of Victoria is required to have a business licence. Depending on the type of business, different documents are required when applying. Business licences are effective from January 16 to January 15 the following year. They are non-transferable and licence fees are non-refundable. Prior to applying for a business licence, you will need to select a location. Zoning regulations vary in different areas of Victoria and determine the type of business you are permitted to operate.
For information on business licensing, contact the City's Business Licence department at For information on zoning, contact the City's Development Services at Once you have selected your location you will need to confirm the current legal use of the proposed space.
The legal use is different from the zoning as it relates to BC Building Code requirements. A building permit may be required for a change in use or for alterations to the physical space to confirm compliance with BC Building Code regulations such as fire protection, occupant safety and accessibility.
You can check current legal use by contacting the City's Permits and Inspections division at Depending on the type of business, different supporting documents that may be required when applying for a business licence.
These can include:. Some applications may be completed and submitted online, others require a completed form, submitted in person, by mail or by email.
