PermitsPilot

New Business Guide

Opening a Restaurant in Ontario: The Complete Permit Timeline

Opening a restaurant in Ontario is an exercise in timing. Apply for a permit too early, and you're paying for a licence you can't use. Apply too late, and your grand opening is pushed back by months. Here is the exact chronological sequence you should follow.

Phase 1: Pre-Lease & Registration (Months 6-8)

Before you even pick a location, you need your legal entity ready. In Ontario, this starts at the provincial level.

  • Master Business Licence (MBL): Register your business name via ServiceOntario. This is required for your bank account and lease.
  • Zoning Verification: Before signing a lease, confirm with the city that the address allows for "Food Establishment" or "Restaurant" use.

Phase 2: The "Long Poles" (Months 4-6)

These are the permits that take the longest to process. Start them as soon as your lease is signed.

  • AGCO Liquor Sales Licence: Processing can take 4-6 months. You don't need to be finished construction to apply, but you do need your floor plans.
  • Building Permit: Required for any kitchen hood installation, plumbing changes, or structural work. Issued by your local building department.

Phase 3: Operational Readiness (Months 1-2)

  • Public Health Unit Notification: You must notify your local Public Health Unit at least 14 days before opening.
  • Fire Department Inspection: Final suppression system and extinguisher checks.

Official Ontario Resources

Build Your Compliance Folder on Day One

Don't wait until you're open to start tracking your renewals. Use PermitsPilot during your pre-opening phase to ensure your new staff certs and operating permits are captured instantly.

  • Centralized Vault: Keep your AGCO, Fire, and Health documents in one accessible dashboard.
  • Pre-Opening Tracking: Get alerts for your AGCO renewal 2 years from now, before you even open your doors.
  • Onboarding Support: Upload your new staff's Food Handler certs; we track their individual expiries.
Start Your Pre-Opening Trial

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and was valid as of the date of posting (Feb 2, 2026). Every municipality in Ontario (Toronto, Mississauga, Ottawa, etc.) has different specific requirements. Always consult with your local building and licensing departments. PermitsPilot is not affiliated with the AGCO or Government of Ontario.