Starting a Business
The City of St. John's is a great place to do business. Whether you are an established company or just starting out with your first business we can help. Browse supports for starting or growing your business below.
Business Information Centre
The Business Information Centre is your first stop for navigating the City’s regulatory process. By working directly with teams across City departments, we help create a more efficient and informed experience. Businesses can also access connections to financing and support resources, economic data, and customized demographic profiles—providing the insights needed to launch and grow with confidence.
Location: 348 Water Street (First floor)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Phone: (709) 576-8107
Email: Business@StJohns.ca
Business Guides & Supports
Browse the below guides and support services to learn more about starting or growing your business.
Starting a Business in St. John's Guide
Our Starting a Business in St. John’s guide provides a brief overview of the regulations and permits about starting a business.
This guide is also available in:
- French. Ce guide est disponible en français.
- Ukrainian. Цей посібник також доступний українською
The French guide is made possible thanks to funding received under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement on French Services.
Guide to Municipal Regulations for Business
Our Guide to Municipal Regulations for Business provides a detailed overview of the regulations, permits, development and planning processes, and taxes as they apply to businesses in the City of St. John’s.
This guide is also available in French. Ce guide est disponible en français.
The French guide is made possible thanks to funding received under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement on French Services.
NL Business Navigator Service
The Provincial Government offers a Business Navigator Service, which provides one-on-one, personalized service for inquiries relating to establishing and/or operating businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador, including the following:
- provincial government regulations and programming;
- required licenses and permits and inspection requirements;
- taxes, funding, financing, staffing, immigration, etc.;
- facilitating links with industry leaders such as boards of trade and chambers of commerce; and
- finding and accessing business resources.
Business Planning
A business plan is a key step in turning your idea into a successful business. It helps you think through your goals, track your progress, and map out where you’re headed and how you’ll get there. It’s also often required when applying for loans or other financing.
To get started, explore the resources and templates for building a clear, well-structured business plan from:
Browse BizPal
BizPaL is an online tool that identifies the permits and licenses you may need from all levels of government.
Why St. John's?
The St. John’s region is not just a beautiful place to live—it’s also a thriving hub for business growth and innovation. Learn more about key sectors driving economic growth and opportunity in our region by visiting the Advantage St. John's website.
For other helpful links, visit our Business Supports webpage.
Other Regulations
You should also be aware that depending upon the type of business you are operating, other regulations at the federal and provincial levels of government may apply.
- Many of the licenses, permits, or approvals required by small businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador are issued through Government Services. For instance, they issue food establishment and tobacco licenses.
- The Newfoundland Labrador Liquor Corporation issues liquor licenses to applicants who have met all requirements.
- All corporations operating in Newfoundland and Labrador must be registered with the Registry of Companies. Sole proprietors and partnerships are not required to register.
- For information regarding Government of Canada taxation policy and business regulation, contact the Canada Revenue Agency or Department of Finance Canada.
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