Mississauga, located in the heart of the Greater Toronto Area, is one of the most vibrant and business-friendly cities in Canada. Home to over 90,000 businesses ranging from small startups to global corporations, it offers the best economic environment for entrepreneurs.
Whether you’re launching a retail store, a tech startup, or a food business, registering your business properly is a critical first step.
In a Hurry? Quick Steps to Register Your Business in Mississauga:
- Pick a business structure (Sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation)
- Register the business name with the Ontario Business Registry.
- Get Business Number (BN) from CRA for tax purposes.
- Check zoning rules your business activity.
- Apply for Business licence types (apply online or in person)
- Book inspections (Health or fire inspection)
- Open business bank account
Read on to learn about business types and how to set up your business.
Register a Business in Mississauga in 8 Steps
If you are planning to start a business in Mississauga, it’s important to follow the correct legal steps to ensure you’re operating within provincial and municipal regulations.
1: Decide on a Business Structure
Before registering, you must determine the legal structure of your business. The most common business types in Ontario are:
1. Sole Proprietorship
A simple and low-cost option where the owner and the business are legally the same. Ideal for single-person operations.
2. Partnership
Owned by two or more people. Partnerships can be general or limited, depending on how liabilities are shared.
3. Corporation
A separate legal entity that offers limited liability protection. While more complex to set up, it is often suitable for growing businesses or those seeking investors.
Each structure comes with different tax implications, liabilities, and operational requirements, so it’s recommended to consult with a business advisor or accountant.
2: Choose and Register Your Business Name
If you’re operating under your personal name (e.g., John Smith Consulting), you don’t need to register a business name. However, if you’re using a brand name (e.g., “Maple Leaf Media”), it must be registered with the Ontario government.
How to Register a Business Name in Ontario:
- Visit Ontario Business Registry online.
- Conduct a name search using the NUANS (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) system to ensure the name is unique.
- Complete your registration online and pay the applicable fee (as of 2025, it’s $60 for a sole proprietorship and $300 for incorporating a business in Ontario).
3: Obtain a Business Number (BN) and Register for CRA Accounts
Once registered, you’ll need a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). This 9-digit number identifies your business for tax purposes.
Depending on your business activities, you may also need to register for:
- HST/GST Account (required if revenue exceeds $30,000 annually)
- Payroll Deductions Account (if you have employees)
- Import/Export Account (if you trade internationally)
You can register for all of these accounts through the CRA Business Registration Online (BRO) service.
4: Check Zoning and Property Use
Before leasing or purchasing commercial space in Mississauga, verify that your proposed location is zoned for your intended business activity.
How to Check Zoning:
- Use the City of Mississauga Zoning By-law interactive maps on their official website.
- You may require a Zoning Certificate of Occupancy, especially if you’re taking over an existing business location.
- If your business activities are not permitted under the current zoning, you might need a minor variance approved by the Committee of Adjustment.
5: Apply for Necessary Business Licences
Business Licensing in Mississauga
Depending on your business type, you may need to obtain an operating licence from the Compliance and Licensing Enforcement Office.
When Is a Licence Required?
If your business involves any of the following, an operating licence is mandatory:
Fixed Location Businesses:
- Adult entertainment
- Auto service stations
- Body rub businesses
- Kennels
- Restaurants or food premises
- Nightclubs
- Medical marijuana production
- Pet shops
- Tattoo and tanning salons
- Tobacco sales
- Salvage yards
- Parking lots
- Fireworks sales (requires fire inspection)
Other Business Types:
- Auctioneers
- Traders/hawkers
- Carnival or circus operation
- Body rub attendants
- Second-hand goods dealers
Each business location requires a separate licence, and licences must be renewed annually.
Licence Requirements:
You’ll need to provide several supporting documents such as:
- Articles of incorporation or business registration
- Valid government-issued ID
- A recent Police Criminal Record Check (within the last 60 days)
- Zoning Certificate of Occupancy
- Franchise agreement (if applicable)
- Fire or health inspection approvals (depending on your business)
How to Apply:
You can apply in person or online for certain business types:
In-Person Application:
- Download and complete the Business Licence Application form.
- Book an appointment at:
3235 Mavis Road, Ground Floor, Mississauga, ON L5C 1T7 - Submit your application and documents.
- Pay applicable fees and receive your licence immediately if all requirements are met.
Online Application (for limited business types):
- Apply through the City of Mississauga’s eLicensing portal.
- Applicable to: personal services, restaurants, short-term accommodations, and tobacco sales businesses.
6: Open a Business Bank Account
Once your business is legally registered and licensed, open a dedicated bank account. This separates personal and business finances and is critical for managing revenue, taxes, and expenses.
You’ll need to provide:
- Your business registration or incorporation documents
- Business Number (BN)
- Two pieces of ID
- Proof of address and business location
7: Understand Other Permits and Compliance
Depending on your business, additional inspections or permits may apply:
Health Inspection:
Required for food-related businesses. Schedule with the Region of Peel Public Health.
Fire Inspection:
Mandatory for venues with public access, food service, or flammable materials. Managed by Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services.
WSIB Registration:
If you employ workers, register with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).
8: Stay Compliant and Renew Your Licence
Keep your records updated and renew your business licence each year before it expires. If your licence expires, you’ll need to reapply from scratch.
To renew:
- Fill out sections 1, 2, 3, and 5 of the Business Licence Application.
- Submit in person or by mail with updated documents and payment.
Mailing address:
Compliance and Licensing Enforcement
3235 Mavis Road, Ground Floor
Mississauga, ON L5C 1T7
Why Choose Bestax for Business Setup in Mississauga?
Starting a business can be overwhelming with all the paperwork, regulations, and legal hurdles. That’s where Bestax steps in. We specialize in helping entrepreneurs with their company registration and licensing process with ease.
With Bestax, you get:
- Expert guidance on choosing the right business structure
- Seamless name registration and CRA setup
- Zoning and license compliance support
- Help with inspections and permits
- Ongoing business advisory and accounting services
Need help setting up your business in Mississauga? Contact Bestax today for a free consultation. Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on building your dream.
Quick FAQs
1. How do I register a business in Mississauga step-by-step?
Choose a structure, register your name, get a CRA business number, check zoning, and apply for any required licences.
2. Do I need to register my business with the government of Ontario?
Yes, if you’re using a business name other than your personal legal name, registration with Ontario is required.
3. What’s the cost to register a business in Mississauga?
Sole proprietorships cost around $60; incorporation in Ontario costs approximately $300, plus licensing fees if applicable.
4. Can I register my business online in Mississauga?
Yes, business name registration and some licences can be completed online through the Ontario Business Registry and city portals.
5. Do I need a business license in Mississauga?
Yes, if your business type is regulated (e.g., food service, personal care, automotive), a municipal business licence is required.
6. How long does it take to register a business in Mississauga?
Registration can take a few hours online; licensing may take days to weeks, depending on inspections and approvals.
7. Do I need a CRA business number for my Mississauga business?
Yes, if you collect HST, have employees, or import/export goods, you must register for a CRA business number.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. For professional assistance and advice, please contact experts.
