Revisiting Municipal Property Tax Fairness in British Columbia

BC small businesses play a crucial role in the province, contributing to its economic growth and vibrant communities. As businesses grapple with the rising cost of doing business, property taxes remain a critical issue. Rising property taxes have led to higher operational costs which not only affects businesses directly through delayed expansion plans and closures, but also burdens consumers through higher prices and contributes to economic stagnation.

This report ranks BC's 20 largest municipalities by measuring two indicators of property tax fairness. Further, it showcases how a property tax shift in Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, and Richmond would deliver significant cost savings to businesses with a marginal impact on residents.