You may be wondering what licences or registrations are required to operate your business.  The Master Business Licence is the most common licence required by businesses in Ontario, but there may be other applicable municipal requirements.  You can use BizPaL to generate a customized list, or contact the Regional Business Centre for more information.

Master Business Licence

A Master Business Licence (MBL) is an official proof of your business name registration. The MBL can be used as proof of business name registration at financial institutions and to facilitate other business-related transactions with the Ontario government.

The fee for a Master Business Licence is $60.00 and it is valid for a 5 year period.

The application can be submitted online with Service Ontario, using any major credit card, and takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete.  The online application also allows you to regsiter for accounts with the Employer Health Tax and Workplace Safety and Insurance Board(WSIB), if desired.  For assistance with the online application, visit the Regional Business Centre and one of our experienced staff will guide you through the process.

Don't have a credit card?  You can also visit Service Ontario at 199 Larch St. (3rd floor) and pay by cash, debit or certified cheque.

Municipal Business Licences

The City of Greater Sudbury has set bylaws with respect to business licences, zoning and taxation.  A municipal business license may be required depending on the type of business being operated. The costs vary depending on the type of business and can be obtained at Bylaw Enforcement Office.  Keep in mind that every municipality is different, so if you will be operating in multiple communities, ensure that you check the requirements with each municipality.

Contact information:

Bylaw Enforcement, City of Greater Sudbury

Tom Davies Square, Main floor

(705) 671-2489 ext 2320

If you have specific enquiries about zoning regulations, please contact:

Economic Development & Planning Services Department, City of Greater Sudbury

Tom Davies Square, 3rd floor 

(705) 671-2489 ext 4295