Does a Corporation need a Master Business License?

Under Ontario’s Business Names Act, you must register your business name with the Province if you are operating a business under a name other than the legal name of the owner of the business. Registration applies to:

  • Sole proprietorships who are operating a business that is different from the owner’s name
  • Partnerships (except for partnerships operating under the Limited Partnerships Act)
  • Corporations who are doing business under a different name than their corporate name
  • Registration provides you with a Master Business License that lasts for five years at a cost of $60.00.

Does the government remind me when my Master Business License will expire?

No. Unfortunately, it is solely your responsibility to remember to renew it every five years. Think of this licenses like your passport, the burden is on you to know the expiry date and renew the license.

Why does the City require a business license?

The City requires business licenses to ensure the health, safety and the well-being of the public, consumer protection and nuisance control.

Do I require a business municipal license or permit license?

If you propose to operate any of the following business types, a municipal business license is required to be filed and approved, prior to operating:

How do I get a Municipal business license?

To get a business license and ensure you receive the information and application that applies to the type of business you are proposing, contact the City’s licensing, enforcement or Clerks office.

Zoning bylaws – Most importantly, you will want to start by considering zoning, as the property where your business will be located must be in compliance with the City’s zoning bylaw. Zoning rules apply to ALL businesses, including home businesses. See our contact sheet for zoning office in Waterloo Region

Building permits – A building permit may be required for alterations to your property or for a change in use, even if you are not planning any construction. For more information contact Building

Do I have to apply in person for a Municipal license or permit?

The Municipality guides local business owners through this process, and provides them with a number of resources. Fees vary based on the license.

What permits, inspections, approvals or documents are necessary to start a business?

Any of the following may be required depending on the type of business:

  • Business plan
  • Site plan
  • Government-issued identification
  • CPIC
  • Fire department inspection and/or approval
  • Sign Permit
  • Health department inspection and/or approval
  • Zoning/planning department approval
  • Building department inspection and/or approval
  • Master business license
  • Tobacco retail or dealers permit

Will the city contact all of the agencies that are required as part of the licensing progress?

No. You will receive an inspection sheet as part of your business license application package. It is your responsibility to reach out to each required department noted in the application. You are also responsible for providing supporting documentation and a site plan to these departments to provide specific required information to support the approval of your business license.

Can I transfer my license if I move locations?

No. Changing your business’ location requires you to reapply for a business license.

How do I change the name of the business or partners names listed on the business registration or Master Business License?

If you are a sole proprietor or general partnership with a Master Business License, a change to the following information will require a new business name registration.

  • business name
  • all partners in a partnership
  • business type (for example, changing a sole proprietorship to partnership)

If I sell my business does my license transfer to the new owner?

No. Your business license will not transfer to new owners in the event that you sell your business. Change of ownership requires that the new owners undertake the application and approval process prior to opening.

Does my home business need a business license?

This depends. If you wish to operate a business which is listed under the “Do I require a business license?” question above, you must contact the zoning/planning department to verify zoning compliance.

What happens if I operate within the City without a business license?

If staff becomes aware of a business that is operating without a license, the City’s enforcement team is obligated to investigate the matter and enforce the City’s bylaws. The City’s bylaws do not give staff discretion or flexibility in this regard. All enforcement actions are kept confidential for the business owner’s privacy.