Build a Business · Permits & registration checklist

Permits & registration checklist

How this differs: this lists what you legally need to open (registrations, licences, permits). For the full picture for your choices (costs, tax, approvals, market, labour, 12-month timeline and forecast), see the Business starter plan.

A personal checklist with links to the official source for each requirement. Your ticks are saved only in this browser.

Home-based business in Dufferin County

1. Book a free consultation with the Orangeville & Area Small Business Enterprise Centre
Orangeville & Area SBEC · Official source
2. Register your business name or corporation (sole proprietorship $60, corporation $300)
ServiceOntario · Official source
3. Get a CRA Business Number and register for GST/HST once revenue passes $30,000 over four quarters (or sooner by choice)
Canada Revenue Agency · Official source
4. Check your municipality's zoning by-law rules for home-based businesses (parking, signage, customer visits)
Your municipality (see community list) · Official source
5. Check grants and loans that match your stage
WhyDufferin funding finder · Official source
6. Add your business to the free WhyDufferin directory and meet local owners through the Dufferin Board of Trade
Dufferin Board of Trade · Official source
7. Check power, gas, water and internet at your address
WhyDufferin utilities guide (links to each utility) · Official source

My notes

Requirements change and some depend on your exact location and activity. Confirm each item with the office linked. Not legal advice. Checked Oct 20, 2026.

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