By-law of the month

Business Licensing By-law

By-laws are put in place to ensure a safe and orderly community for all who live, work and play in Vaughan. Each month, the City of Vaughan explores a different by-law and what it means for you. This month, let’s take a look at the Business Licensing By-law 122-2022 (PDF).

Did you know all contractors in Vaughan – including those hired to remove snow from driveways, laneways and sidewalks – must be licensed by the City.

As outlined in the City’s Business Licensing By-law 122-2022 (PDF), these businesses are required to take various measures to protect you, their employees and the community at large. This includes providing services in compliance with all relevant City by-laws and regulations, carrying a certain amount of liability insurance and providing a written contract to customers, among other requirements. 

If you’re thinking of hiring someone to do work around your home, before you sign anything, do your research and find the right – and licensed – company for the job! This can save you time, unnecessary stress and money in the long run.

Here are a couple tips when doing your research:

• Always use caution when contacting companies that advertise illegally, such as placing stickers and posters on public property – these companies are often not licensed. For more information, visit vaughan.ca/signs.
• To find out if a business or contractor is licensed by the City, you can:
  • use the City’s online look-up tool at vaughan.ca/BusinessLicensing.
  • call 905-832-2281.
  • email bylaw@vaughan.ca. 

Note, the fact that a business or contractor is licensed does not necessarily mean they are best suited for the work. Even if a business or contractor is licensed by the City, you must do your own due diligence to ensure they are qualified and a good fit for the job. 

Business licences

The City issues licences and permits for various types of businesses, special events, lotteries and other activities. Visit vaughan.ca/BusinessLicensing to see if your business requires a licence/permit. You can apply and pay for business licences and permits online, and check the status of your application anytime. Visit vaughan.ca/ServiceVaughan to get started.

The Vaughan Business and Entrepreneurship Centre provides one-stop services for existing business owners, with access to business information, resources, training and hands-on assistance to grow a business in Vaughan.

Report unlicensed businesses in Vaughan

Do your part to help keep Vaughan safe and beautiful. To report illegal signs or businesses operating without a licence, call Service Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or email the City’s By-law and Compliance, Licensing and Permit Services team at bylaw@vaughan.ca. 

For more information, visit vaughan.ca/BusinessLicensing.

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