Jobs for The rules, by age
What you're allowed
to do in BC.
The rules changed in 2021. Here they are, by age.
General summary of BC's Employment Standards Act and Regulation, reviewed August 2026. General information, not legal advice.
No permission needed
You can work without anyone's consent. Certain hazardous work is still restricted under 16, and some categories until 18 — so check the role itself.
Light work, with consent
Cashier, salesperson (not door-to-door), serving food or drink but not alcohol, lifeguard, camp leader, coach, referee, courier. Family-owned business and entertainment-industry work also don't need a permit. A guardian signs written consent and the employer keeps it on file.
Consent plus permission
Anything off the light work list needs the Director's permission from the Employment Standards Branch, on top of guardian consent.
Limited work without a permit
No permit needed to work as a camp assistant, assistant coach, referee or umpire, or for a family-owned business — provided the tasks aren't on the 'not light work' list — or to perform in the entertainment industry. A permit from the Employment Standards Branch is generally required outside those three exceptions.
Permit required
A permit from the Employment Standards Branch is required for any work at this age, except performing in the entertainment industry.
Not sure if a job is okay for your age? Check the exact role, hours and conditions on the official BC page.
Read the official BC Employment Standards sourceIf you're under 15
Direct supervision by someone at least 19 is required for working children generally, not just this age band. Under 15 specifically, you're also capped at 4 hours on a school day, 7 on a non-school day, 20 hours in a week with five school days, and 35 hours otherwise.