Step #6: Licensing Requirements

Business Licensing

Many businesses in Hamilton must be licensed to operate legally for public health and safety, consumer protection, and/or nuisance prevention. A business licence protects the health and safety of the public who use their service or products and also helps ensure consistency for business owners and customers.

It is highly recommended that you visit the City of Hamilton Licensing Department to find out if your business needs a Municipal Licence to operate in Hamilton.

What business requires a licence?

1. Establishment licence
2. Mobile licence

For a complete list of businesses that require a business licence, refer to the City of Hamilton's Licensing Business Reference Guide (PDF).

A business licence application must be submitted by:

• an individual owner
• a partner in a partnership
• the president or a signing officer of the corporation
• or written authorization by the president and/or signing officer of the corporation

Business licence expiry

Most business licences are valid for one year from the date issued. You must renew the licence every year. As a courtesy, the City may send out renewal notices by mail. However, it is the licence holder’s responsibility to ensure the licence is current.

How do I apply for or renew a business licence?

If your business licence requires a photo ID or in-person service,  you will need to visit the City of Hamilton Licencing office. Dependent on the type of licence, one or more of the applications may also be required:

• Food Premise Questionnaire
• Certificate of Compliance
• Trade Licence Questionnaire

The City of Hamilton Licencing department has two locations for convenient service:

Other Business Licences

Temporary Business Licence

Looking to do a pop-up? You can get a 30-day licence to test the market before becoming fully licensed. This is known as a Temporary Business Licence and is ideal for businesses looking to:

• test markets
• increase their name recognition
• promote business development with minimal risk

To learn more and apply for a Temporary Business Licence please visit the City of Hamilton's online Temporary Business Licence resource.

Trade Licence

Contractors including plumbers, HVAC, building repair, sprinkler and fire protection must be licenced in Hamilton. To learn more about Trade Licences and fees, please visit the City of Hamilton's online Trade Licence resource.

Provincial Business Licenses

Certain types of businesses may require provincial licences:

• Liquor service businesses: contact the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) for a liquor licence
• Vehicle dealer registration: contact the Ontario's Vehicle Sales Regulator (OMVIC)
• Day care service: visit the Ministry of Education's Provide child care and early years programs online resources.

Reminder: Your business registration documents are needed to apply for a Municipal Licence.