Get ready to launch or renew your business! Whether you're starting a new venture or renewing your licence, we’re here to help. We’re excited you have joined our vibrant business community. It’s time to get licensed and open for business!
Before you begin
- Zoning: Check with our Zoning section to ensure your location is zoned for your type of business at [email protected] or 905-356-7521 x 4330.
- Building Permits: You may require a building permit if you plan to modify your space. If you need a permit it must be issued, and all inspections passed before your business can get a licence. The licence cannot be issued with any open building permits on the property. Email Building Services or call 905-356-7521 x 4001.
- Public Health: You may require a certificate from the Medical Officer of Health stating that the premises have been inspected and comply with legislation.
- Check the Licensing By-law: Learn about licencing fees and rules for the type of business you want to open.
How to apply
Print out the required form(s) for the type of business licence you need. Ensure your application is complete before visiting City Hall so that we can process it quickly.
Please email your completed application to the Licensing Coordinator, [email protected], 905-356-7521 x 4283
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
Types of business licences and forms
Bed and Breakfasts
Visit our Bed and Breakfast page for the license form and everything you need to know about B&Bs in Niagara Falls.
Camping establishments
A camping establishment, also known as a campsite or campground, is where people can set up tents and park recreational vehicles (RVs) to enjoy outdoor activities and nature. It may include amenity buildings that are needed to serve guests and visitors.
Apply: Camping Establishment - Business Licence Application
Relevant by-laws:
Visit the Frequently Requested By-laws page for the most up-to-date by-law versions. Here are some by-laws that impact camping establishments:
- Business Licensing
- Noise
- Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) - please note that MAT is applicable to cabins beings occupied on a campground, however tents and trailers are exempt
- Property Standards
Commercial parking lots
A privately owned commercial parking lot is a parcel of land, building, or structure where space is rented to store or park vehicles for profit.
Apply: Commercial Parking Lot – Business Licence Application
Driving schools/instructors
Driving schools and driving self-employed instructors need a business licence to teach people to operate motor vehicles.
Apply: Driving School - Business Licence Application
Municipal business licences (all other types)
You must complete the municipal business licence application for a new or renewal licence for all other business categories.
Apply: Municipal Business Licence Application
Public halls
A public hall is a building or portion, including a portable building or tent, that is rented for public gatherings. Apply: Public Hall - Business Licence Application
Refreshment vehicles (food trucks)
A refreshment vehicle includes any vehicle (truck, cart, bbq) from which canteen services are provided or certain food and beverages are sold to the public.Apply: Refreshment Vehicle - Business Licence Application
Specific location/daily sales
Issued to every person who proposes to sell items at a specific location within the city on a certain day or for a limited number of days in the year. These sales may be direct or for delivery later. An example is the temporary sales of fireworks.
Apply: Specific Location Daily Sales - Business Licence Application
Vacation Rental Units
Visit our Vacation Rental Units page for the license form and everything you need to know about VRUs in Niagara Falls.
Operating without a licence
Contact Municipal By-law Enforcement:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 905-356-7521 x 8000
- In person: MacBain Community Centre, 7150 Montrose Road
