Licensing & Permits

Following is more information on some of the licenses you may need to operate a business in Qualicum Beach.

Building Permits

A Building Permit is required for various construction. For more details visit the link below.

Building Permit Guidelines

Business License

If you wish to conduct business in the Town of Qualicum Beach, you require a business license. This includes contractors and other mobile businesses that may have a primary location outside of the Town.

General Business License
Bed and Breakfast License
The Town of Qualicum Beach defines a Bed and Breakfast as:
- The use of part of a single family dwelling containing additional sleeping rooms for the accommodation of paying transient guests where breakfast is the only meal which may be served to the guests; and
- must be conducted in conjunction with the single-family dwelling,
- have sleeping rooms contained within the dwelling,
- have the owner of the Bed and Breakfast business resides in the dwelling while the use is being carried out,
- employ a maximum of one non-resident employee in the Bed and Breakfast business,
- provide breakfast as the only meal served, before noon, and
- ensure the maximum number of guests sleeping rooms, and guests comply with the maximum allowed in the bylaw.
In addition, any Secondary Suite attached to the principal dwelling must not be used as part of the Bed and Breakfast.
For more information on Fire Inspection guidelines for Bed and Breakfasts, please click here.
Mobile Vending License
Please note that mobile vending businesses can only operate in the municipal boundaries of Qualicum Beach with a special permit that is approved by Council.
Business License Bylaw

Planning Permits

The Official Community Plan (OCP) identifies areas in Town with specific guidelines related to unique conditions. development permit areas. Unique conditions include proximity to the commercial core, environmentally sensitive areas, hazardous slopes, flood plains, heritage value, and other considerations. Development permit area may have specific requirements for the design and construction of buildings, modification of landscaping or terrain, removal of trees, involvement outside professionals, or other considerations.

Tree Removal Permit

The Tree Protection Bylaw No. 725 manages the natural tree canopy and preserves native trees. A permit may be required to enable tree cutting and alteration under specific conditions. See more at https://www.qualicumbeach.com/treeprotection

Dog License

All dogs over the age of 8 weeks must wear a current-year Town dog tag. Dog license tags expire annually on December 31st. Renewal notices are mailed out at the end of November. Come into Town Hall to process your license. For more information view our Animal Control Brochure

Burning Permit

Burning in Qualicum Beach must operate under specific conditions and locations and requires a burning license.

Burning Permits

FAQ Burning Guide

Sign Permits

All business signage in the Town must be approved before posting.

Sign Permit Application Form

Special Event Permit & Signage

The Town of Qualicum Beach recognizes the benefits of special events within the many public spaces of our community. Special events from block parties to large festivals may require special permission and the Town is here to help.

Special Event Permit

Special Event Signage

Banner Application

Read-O-Graph Application