Montréal Business Licence Background Check Rules

Business and Consumer Protection Quebec 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Quebec

In Montréal, Quebec, background checks can affect eligibility for certain small business licences and permits. Applicants should confirm requirements early in the application process because rules vary by licence type, borough and risk level. This guide explains typical documentation, who enforces compliance, how checks are requested or submitted, and what to expect if an issue arises during licensing.

Background checks are commonly required for regulated trades and safety-sensitive roles.

When background checks are required

Not all business licences require a criminal background check. Common licence types that may require checks include second-hand goods dealers, security services, child-related services, certain personal services, and other safety-sensitive activities. The specific requirement is listed on the city licence page for each licence category.

What officials check

  • Identity: government ID and proof of address.
  • Criminal record disclosures or police certificates when required.
  • Relevant licences, certifications and professional records.
  • Payment of application fees where applicable.

How to obtain and submit a background check

In Montréal, applicants commonly obtain police certificates from the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) or a provincial police service, or request a vulnerable sector check where relevant. Some boroughs or specific licence forms allow applicants to consent to a city-initiated check instead of uploading a certificate. Check the licence-specific instructions before you apply.

Applications & Forms

Licence application forms and required documents vary by licence type. Where a police certificate, letter of good conduct or criminal record check is required, the exact form name or number is listed on the licence application page. If a form number or fee is not shown on the official licence page, it is not specified on the cited page.[1]

Some licences require a police clearance before you apply.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of licence requirements and of bylaw provisions related to licences is carried out by City of Montréal licensing and by-law enforcement staff and, where applicable, police services. Specific fines and sanctions depend on the applicable municipal bylaw or licence regulation.

  • Monetary fines: exact amounts are set in the controlling bylaw or schedule; if amounts are not listed on the licence page they are not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence treatment is determined by the bylaw; specific escalation ranges are not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Non-monetary measures: refusals, licence suspensions, licence revocations, compliance orders and seizure of prohibited goods where authorized.
  • Enforcer: municipal Permits and Licences or By-law Enforcement divisions; certain offences may be pursued in court.
  • Inspection and complaint: complaints are submitted to the City of Montréal’s by-law or permits contact channels; see Help and Support / Resources below for official contacts.
  • Appeals and reviews: appeal routes depend on the bylaw; time limits for appealing administrative decisions or tickets are specified in the controlling instrument or on the licence page and are not specified on the cited page.[1]

Typical violations and likely outcomes:

  • Operating without a required licence — administrative fines, orders to cease operations, possible seizure.
  • Failing to disclose required criminal records — refusal or suspension of licence.
  • Providing false documents — fines and potential criminal referral.

How-To

  1. Determine whether your specific Montréal licence requires a background check by reading the licence-specific page on the City of Montréal permit and licence portal.
  2. Obtain the required police certificate or disclosure—contact SPVM or your provincial police service if needed.
  3. Complete the licence application form, attach the background check or indicate consent for a city-initiated check, and pay applicable fees.
  4. Track the application and respond promptly to any city requests for further information.
  5. If refused or sanctioned, follow the appeal instructions on the decision notice and note the time limits specified in that notice or the controlling bylaw.

FAQ

Do all small business licences in Montréal require a background check?
Not all licences require a background check; requirements depend on licence type and are listed on each licence's official page.
Where do I get a police certificate for a licence application?
Applicants typically request certificates from the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) or the provincial police; follow the instructions on the licence application page.
What if my background check shows a past conviction?
Decisions depend on the nature of the conviction and the licence’s public-safety considerations; the city may refuse or impose conditions, and appeal routes are provided in the decision notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Check the licence-specific requirements early to avoid delays.
  • Processing times and any deadlines vary by licence and borough.
  • Contact the City of Montréal Permits and Licences or your borough for precise instructions.

Help and Support / Resources

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