Apply for a drain layer or contractor licence

You need a licence to repair, plan or lead the installation of drains in Mississauga.

Your licence expires annually, one year from the date it’s issued. A renewal notice will be sent to the email address on file. If no email is available, it’ll be mailed to you.


Master drain layer

A master drain layer is skilled in the planning and installing of drains both inside and outside buildings. The master drain layer may do the work on their own or supervise journeymen, drain layers or plumbers. The work includes:

  • New drains
  • Weeping tiles and septic tanks
  • Drain reconstruction and repair
  • Removal of tree roots or other obstructions from drains
  • Private drain connections

Requirements

To apply for or renew your licence, you’ll need to submit:

  • Government-issued photo identification
  • One of:
  • A copy of your business registration documents if applicable
  • Certificate of Insurance (minimum $2 million construction liability completed by your insurance provider)
  • A letter of employment issued by a licensed drain or plumbing Contractor, showing at least two years of practical experience

Written test

The City’s three-hour written test tests your knowledge of the Ontario Building Code. You should set aside the whole day for the test. You can start an online licence application before completing the test.

To write the test:

  • Book an appointment to take the test
  • Pay the test fee in person when you write the test or with your online application
  • Come to the appointment and write the test

The test is written at Licensing, Permits and Regulatory Services, located at 950 Burnhamthorpe Road West.

You don’t need to rewrite the test to renew your licence.


License and test fees

The written test costs $79.48 (HST included).

A new license costs $255.21.

A license renewal costs $220.04.

Drain contractor

A drain contractor lays, repairs and installs drains. They must be or employ at least one licensed master plumber or master drain layer on a regular, full-time basis.


Requirements

You must be 18 years of age or older to apply. You also must provide the following documents and approvals:

  • Articles of incorporation or corporate profile report (This isn’t required for sole proprietorships)
  • Business name registration or franchise agreement
  • Government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s licence or passport
  • Certificate of Insurance showing a minimum $2 million liability coverage with the City of Mississauga listed as an additional insured
  • Letter of authorization appointing an agent signed by a director or owner to act on their behalf, if required

Licence fees

A new licence costs $255.21.

A licence renewal costs $220.04.


How to apply or renew

You can apply for or renew your licence in person or by mail. Only complete applications will be reviewed.

In person

  1. Complete the business licence application and gather the required documents and approvals.
  2. Book an appointment for a new licence or a licence renewal.
  3. Bring your application and supporting documents to your appointment. The Licensing, Permits and Regulatory Services office is at 950 Burnhamthorpe Road West.
  4. Pay the licence fees.

Licences may not be issued on the same day if more information is needed.

By mail

Mail your completed business licence application, the supporting documents and a cheque payable to the City of Mississauga in the amount of the licence fee to:

Licensing, Permits and Regulatory Services
950 Burnhamthorpe Road West
Mississauga, ON L5C 3B4


Contact us

If you have any questions about licensing, call 311 (905-615-4311 outside city limits).