Business Licences and Permits

If you operate a business in Whitby, you may need a business licence or permit. Business licensing requirements vary by municipality and help ensure public health, safety, and fair business practices.

Review the full Business Licensing By-law # 5545-04 for more details about the types of businesses the Town licences.

To apply for a new licence or renew an existing licence, complete the corresponding application and submit the complete application along with payment to Enforcement Services. Applications are typically processed within 10 business days.

Types of Business Licences

The Town licences various types of businesses. Select a link below to access the required application form:

• Broker Licence
• Exhibition Licence
• Fireworks – Mobile Sales Premises
• Food Premises
• General Business Licence (auctioneer, pawn broker, salvage yard, adult entertainment)
• Group Homes
• Limousine and Taxi Licences
• Lodging House
• Refreshment Vehicles

Note: Any home-based business in which food intended for human consumption is made for sale must obtain a Food Premises Licence.

Home-Based Businesses

You may operate a home-based business in Whitby if it meets the criteria in the applicable Zoning By-law and complies with all other municipal and health regulations. This applies to properties in zones that permit a dwelling unit. A business licence may be required depending on the type of business. 

What defines a home-based business?

• The primary use of the property must remain residential.
• Business activities must be secondary to the residential use.
• The activity of the business needs to comply with the provisions in the Zoning By-law.

Contact The Town's Planning Department if you have any questions about the zoning requirements for your home-based business.

 Find a Licenced Business

Use the interactive map below to search for licenced business in Whitby. 

Search by business name, location, or category. You can also generate a list of licenced businesses based on your search criteria. 

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