All businesses for gain or profit in the City of Maple Ridge require a business licence.
Short-Term Rentals
As of April 22, 2025, Short-Term Rental regulations were approved by Council. The City will be accepting business licence applications for Short-Term Rentals starting Mid-May 2025. A new Short-Term Rental Application will be available online shortly.
We're Here to Help!
Getting a business licence is a simple process that is required of all businesses operating in Maple Ridge.
Some of the benefits to obtaining a business licence include:
- Makes your business a legal operation in terms of the City of Maple Ridge's Business Licencing and Regulation Bylaw
- Lists the business in the City of Maple Ridge Business Directory (home-based, commercial and daycare business licences only)
- Enables the City to regulate the types and locations of businesses conducted within its jurisdiction
- Supports the development of promotional materials aimed at attracting business investment and job creation
- Assists with the development of demographic and statistical information on the local business climate
Applying
Review our Business Licence Guide to assist you with applying for a business licence. If you require assistance at any time, staff will help you work through the process.
The City has categorized home based business into 4 different types, each with their own set of regulations.
- Type 1 is for residents of a townhouse or apartment. Review our Type 1 Home Based Business brochure.
- Type 2 is for residents of single detached lots, under 1,200 square meters. Review our Type 2 Home Based Business brochure.
- Type 3 is for residents of single detached lots, 1,200 square meters and over. Review our Type 3 Home Based Business brochure.
- Type 4 is for residents of single detached lots over 1 acre. Review our Type 4 Home Base Business brochure.
If you are applying for a commercial business licence, please review our commercial business licence application process information guide. For direct assistance and guidance through the licensing and potential permitting process you may contact our Business Licence Coordinator via email at BusLic@mapleridge.ca or phone at 604-467-7378.
You can download a copy of our business licence application or request that one be sent to you by mail or fax. Or you can pick one up at the Bylaw, Licensing & Community Safety Department.
Some businesses may be eligible for an upgrade known as a Intermunicipal Business Licence (IMBL) that allows them to do business in 12 communities across the Fraser Valley under one licence. More details on this licence can be found on our Business Licence Types page.
If you require assistance or guidance, please contact staff by phone at 604-467-7378 or by email at BusLic@mapleridge.ca
Things We'll Ask When You Apply For a Business Licence
- The legal address where you want to operate
Before you sign a lease or purchase a property, check with City Hall to ensure your property meets zoning and building bylaw requirements for your type of business. - The nature of your business
This helps us understand how your business fits into the neighbourhood and building where you plan to operate. - Are you planning any renovations or tenant improvements?
Some examples of when permits are required include the removal, installation or relocation of interior walls, windows or doors, or changes to the electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning system or sprinkler system. - Do you require Fraser Health approval?
Food services, daycares and personal services business are just some of the types of businesses that require Fraser Health approval prior to issuance of a business licence from the City. Please contact the local Fraser Health branch to discuss their requirements. - Do you have all the required Federal and Provincial approvals?
Some businesses require approval from a Provincial or Federal regulatory body in order to receive a business licence. Regulated businesses included liquor establishments, pharmacies, motor vehicle dealers, massage therapists and certified trades.
What Happens After You Submit Your Application?
City staff will review your business licence application and then contact you to schedule inspections (if applicable).