Open a business or launch a company
Would you like to open a business, take ownership of a commercial space, create a business establishment or run a company from home? Would you like to speak with an economic development commissioner? Find out what you need to do according to your situation.
Renting or purchasing commercial space
Do you need an office, commercial space or industrial space? Are you taking ownership of an existing space?
Zoning
Before renting or purchasing your space, make sure that the activity you plan to carry out is authorized by zoning laws.
Contact the permit counter in the borough where your business will be located or view the interactive zoning map.
View the interactive map (in French)
Occupancy permits
Next, you need to apply for an occupancy permit for commercial or professional activity, also known as an occupancy certificate.
This procedure is necessary even if you are only using part of your home as an office.
Development work
If you would like to have work done inside your business space or on the building’s facade, you will need a renovation permit. This permit may be required when you apply for your occupancy permit.
Find out more about interior renovations
Find out more about exterior renovations
Commercial signs
Do you need a sign for your store, restaurant or business establishment? First, you need to have an occupancy certificate or have already applied for one.
Apply for a commercial sign permit
Commercial terrace
Would you like to build a terrace outside your restaurant or grocery store? Certain rules apply, depending on:
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The borough in which your establishment is located.
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The nature of your activity.
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The location of the terrace (private property or road/street).
In some cases, in addition to a permit to build a terrace, you may also need a café-terrace permit.
See information about terraces
Apply for a permit for a terrace on private property
Apply for a permit for a terrace on public property
Assistance and financial aid
To learn more about the various types of financial assistance offered by the city, see the information below on subsidies or contact your borough’s economic development commissioner.
The economic development commissioner helps support development on commercial streets and facilitates groups of businesspeople and merchants. He or she is also very familiar with the city’s subsidy programs.
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