Start or Grow Your Business

The Zoning Bylaw regulates land use in Port Moody. Commercial uses must be aligned with approved uses in the prescribed zone. Uses are divided into principal uses, which are the primary uses in a zone, and secondary uses. If you want to build on or use a property in ways that differ significantly from what the current zoning allows, you’ll need to apply to have the property rezoned. If the proposed use is short-term, a temporary use permit may be an option. Both rezoning and temporary use permit applications must be approved by City Council.

Port Moody’s Official Community Plan (OCP) is the long-term vision for our city and provides policies to guide land use and services, as well as physical, social, and economic changes. If a proposed land use differs from the vision described in the OCP for a particular area, an OCP amendment may be required. OCP amendments must be approved by City Council.

If you have questions about land use in Port Moody, please contact our Planning team by email or by phone at 604-469-4540.

Once you have location options in mind and you know what kind of space you’re looking for, check spacelist for commercial properties available in Port Moody. 

If you’re starting a new build, adding a structure to your property, or renovating your existing place of business, you’ll need to apply for a building permit. And any construction, substantial alterations, patios, or other structures will need to be compliant with the BC Building Code, which provides the minimum requirements for a safe built environment.

Not sure whether you need a building permit? Wondering about Deconstruction or plumbing permits, or inspections for standard building projects? Visit our Building and Renovating page to learn more about building and renovating in Port Moody, or contact our Building, Bylaw, and Licensing team. We’re here to help – send us an email or call 604-469-4534.

To operate a business in Port Moody, you’ll need a business licence. Visit portmoody.ca to apply for a licence and to read about potential requirements such as building, fire, and health inspections. If your new business will be operating out of a commercial space, a floor plan must be submitted with your application. Once you have a business licence, you’ll need to renew each year in January.

If you’re applying for a Port Moody business licence and you’d also like to conduct business in neighbouring Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam, you can apply for an inter-municipal business licence at the same time (instead of applying separately to each municipality). It’s easy to apply – when you’re filling out the Port Moody business licence application form, simply check the box for "Inter-Municipal" under "Application Type." Once approved, we'll add the inter-municipal endorsement to your existing Port Moody business licence and send your new inter-municipal business licence to you by mail.

If you're operating a home-based business or home office from either your primary residence or a permitted accessory building, make sure you follow Port Moody’s Zoning Bylaw (Section 5.2.3). The Zoning Bylaw provides standard rules for all home-based occupations to help ensure the continued safety and enjoyment of the surrounding neighbourhood, as well as specific regulations depending on the type of home-based business or office.

Have questions? Contact our Licensing team by email or by phone at 604-469-4541.