Business Licences
Business Licensing in Ucluelet
The District of Ucluelet Business Licence Bylaw requires that any commercial, industrial, home-based or non-resident business working within the municipality must have a valid business licence in order to operate.
How to Apply for a Business Licence
1. Download and complete the Business Licence Application.
2. Please submit your application form in-person, by mail or by email to info@ucluelet.ca, along with any supporting documents and the $35 application fee.
At this time, you are able to pay your application fee of $35 in person at the District office by cash, cheque or debit, through the mail by cash or cheque, or online through your bank. If paying through online banking, locate Ucluelet, District - Business Licence- enter Acc:9999. Please reference your business name if possible
Application forms and checklists are also available for pick up at the District of Ucluelet Office.
Different business licence fees apply to different types of business. The fee for your business licence will be determined during the review process.
To view the Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw click here
Things to Keep in Mind
• Business licences are renewed annually and are valid from 01 May to 30 April.
• Renewal forms are mailed out to existing, licensed businesses in March /April each year. To avoid any late penalties, payments must be received by 01 June (30 days after the due date). Renewals can be paid via online banking, cash, debit or cheque.
• Licences are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
• A new licence application is required when the use of a business premises is changed, when a business property is developed or renovated, or when there is a change of business owner or business address.
• Provincial and federal governments may have additional requirements that must be met before a business can legally operate.
How to Renew your Business Licence
Business licences can be renewed for the year starting May 01. All persons carrying on a business within the municipality of Ucluelet must renew and pay their Business Licence by May 31 each year or they are deemed 'not in possession of a valid Business Licence.' (Business Regulation and Licensing Bylaw No. 922, 2003 and Amendment Bylaw No. 1021, 2006.) Fines may be issues to businesses with an expired licence/ other associated fees may apply.
You can pay for your Business Licence renewal in the following ways:
- Online:
- Online payments are available through most financial institutions.
- Log into your online banking account and 'Add Payee', search "Ucluelet" and find the Business Licence option.
- Enter the 4 digits for your account (if you only have 3 add a zero in the front).
- Mail a cheque/ bank draft/ money order:
- Mail to PO Box 999, Ucluelet, BC V0R 3A0. Please note your account number on your payment.
- In person:
- To pay for your Business Licence renewal in person, please visit the District of Ucluelet Municipal Office at 200 Main Street. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, excluding statutory holidays.
- Drop Box:
- There is a District of Ucluelet Drop Box outside of the Municipal Office at 200 Main Street. The required renewal documents can be left in the box at anytime.
What Happens After You’ve Submitted Your Business Licence Application
Once an application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by different departments. These departments will vary based on the type of business, but may include Planning, Building, Fire and Bylaw. Depending on the type of business, external agencies may also be asked for their comments and input. The review process can take 10 - 15 working days, or more if external agencies are involved.
When the review has been completed, you will be contacted by the District Office to pay the licence fee. Payments can be made by cash, debit or cheque. Your business can start operating as soon as all fees have been paid. The business licence will be mailed to you within 10 working days. Once the license is received, it should be displayed in a prominent position at your business location.
Current Business Licence Holders
The District of Ucluelet regularly publishes a list of current business licence holders. Business are listed alphabetically and according to their business category.
If you are aware of a business operating in Ucluelet without a valid business licence, please contact the Bylaw Officer.
Business License Holders (September 2024)
Doing Business in Ucluelet
This section contains information to support new and existing businesses in Ucluelet.
Business Opportunities Guide - The Guide reflects the opinions of local businesses with respect to local challenges and needs.
Business Supports - Signposting links to help start and grow a business in Ucluelet.
Economic Indicators - Examples of growth and economic activity comparing Ucluelet with other areas in BC.
Starting a Business in Ucluelet - This Guide contains useful links and information on how to start a business in Ucluelet, from developing and testing business ideas to reviewing relevant bylaws.
Youth Employment Database - The database lists local companies employing youth and details how best to apply.
