The Business Licence Bylaw requires that all businesses operating in Saanich be in possession of a valid Saanich Business Licence or a valid Intermunicipal Business Licence. This requirement applies to all commercial, industrial, home based and non-resident businesses operating within the municipality.

Notices are mailed at the end of each year to all business that were licensed the preceding year. Business licence fees are due and payable on the first business day in January each year, or the date of application for a new business licence, if later. If you are no longer operating your business please contact the Business Licence Department at 475-5401 so that we can update our records.

Payment to renew your business licence can be made on the District of Saanich website by using a credit card to make payment.

Annual Fees:

Fees for each business category are set out below. For business commencing operation after July 31, the fees are reduced by 50%.

*"Home Crafts" as .. "a business carried on as a home occupation use within a residence in which articles are made by hand, including jewelry, dolls, wood crafts, stuffed animals, holiday art, toys, greeting cards, candles, soap, flower arranging, and clothing."

Business licences may be transferred from one location to another for the same business, free of charge. A business licence is not transferable from one business to another business.

How do I apply for a Commercial, Home Based or Intermunicipal Business Licence?

Please read the information about Home Based or Intermunicipal licences first.

A Business Licence Application is available online. A copy of the form is also available at the Municipal Hall or can be mailed to you at your request.

If you prefer, you can take advantage of One Stop Business Registration. The OneStop Business Registry allows applications for a business licence to be completed from your home or office and forwarded electronically to the Business Licence Division in your own municipality.

For further information please contact:

Corporation of the District of Saanich
Business Licence Section
Telephone: 475-5401 Fax: 475-5429
E-mail to: onestop@saanich.ca