Snow Removal Business in Ontario
Highest rates in Canada, with mandatory WSIB coverage
Ontario Quick Facts
Tax Rate: 13% HST
WSIB: MANDATORY for construction
Contractor License: Not required
Toronto rates: $125-$345/hr
Ottawa rates: $125-$175/hr
Season: November - March
Critical: WSIB is Mandatory in Ontario
Since January 1, 2013, WSIB coverage is compulsory for independent operators, sole proprietors, and executive officers in the construction industry - with or without employees. This is unique among all Canadian provinces. Failing to register can result in penalties.
Tax Requirements
What You Charge Customers
13% HST on all invoices. A $150/hr rate = $169.50 to customer including HST. Single registration covers both federal (5%) and provincial (8%) portions.
HST Registration
Required if revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 12-month period. Register through CRA's Business Registration Online at canada.ca. Input tax credits available on business purchases.
WSIB (Workers' Safety Insurance Board)
Status: MANDATORY
All construction sole proprietors must register with WSIB. This includes skid steer operators doing snow removal on commercial properties. One exception: operators working exclusively on home renovation hired directly by a homeowner/occupant may qualify for exemption.
Cost
Premium rate: approximately $1.61 per $100 of earnings (Class G6 non-residential construction).
Maximum assessable earnings (2026): $121,700.
On $80,000 gross: approximately $1,288/year.
Website: wsib.ca
Penalties for Non-Compliance
WSIB can assess unpaid premiums plus penalties. General contractors may also refuse to hire you without proof of WSIB coverage.
Business Registration
Utility Locates
Ontario One Call - It's the Law
Ontario is the only province with dedicated One-Call legislation (OUINSA 2012). Fines up to $10,000 for digging without locates; up to $25,000/day on criminal conviction.
Phone: 1-800-400-2255
Website: ontarioonecall.ca
Turnaround: 5 business days (longest in Canada - plan ahead)
Validity: 30 days
Insurance Requirements
| Coverage | Required? | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| CGL ($2M) | Required by most clients | ~$550-$2,000/yr |
| Commercial Auto | Legally required ($200K min, $1M recommended) | $2,000-$5,000/yr |
| Equipment Insurance | Strongly recommended | $500-$2,000/yr |
| WSIB | MANDATORY | ~$1.61/$100 |
Snow Removal Rates in Ontario
| City | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto/GTA | $125/hr | $345/hr |
| Ottawa | $125/hr | $175/hr |
| Hamilton | $110/hr | $160/hr |
| London / KW | $110/hr | $160/hr |
Toronto commands the highest snow removal rates in Canada. Heavy equipment clearing can hit $345/hr.
Ontario Resources
Industry Association
Landscape Ontario
landscapeontario.com
Membership: $493.50/yr ($100+HST first year for sole proprietors)
Small Business Support
Small Business Enterprise Centres (54 locations)
ontario.ca
Starter Company Plus grants up to $5K available
Snow Removal in Other Provinces
Browse Equipment in Ontario
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