Permits for a Restaurant in Boston, Massachusetts

Authorizes the sale of all alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, and spirits) for on-premises consumption. Issued by the local licensing authority (city/town) and approved by the ABCC. Subject to local quota limits. Most common license for full-service bars and restaurants.

Authorizes the sale of wine and malt beverages (beer) only for on-premises consumption. Issued by local licensing authority with ABCC approval. Lower cost and often easier to obtain than an all-alcohol license.

Authorizes the sale of alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption. Required for liquor stores, wine shops, and any retail sale of packaged alcohol. Subject to quota limits per municipality.

Massachusetts requires any person or entity conducting business under a name other than their legal name to file a Business Certificate (DBA) with the city or town clerk. Filing is required within 15 days of commencing business.

Massachusetts employers must register with the Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) and pay state unemployment insurance tax. New employer rate is approximately 1.45%–14.37% depending on industry. Taxable wage base is $15,000 per employee.

Massachusetts requires all employers to carry workers' compensation insurance for their employees. No minimum employee threshold — even one employee triggers the requirement. Coverage purchased from private insurers or the state Workers' Compensation Rating and Inspection Bureau.

Required for establishments with occupant loads of 50 or more. Issued by the local fire department after inspection. Determines maximum occupancy and requires compliance with Massachusetts fire code (527 CMR).

Required before any building can be occupied for commercial use. Verifies zoning compliance, building code compliance, and that all fire, plumbing, and electrical inspections have passed. Issued by the local building department.

All bars, restaurants, and public-facing establishments must pass fire safety inspections. Inspections verify fire suppression systems, exit routes, emergency lighting, fire extinguishers, and kitchen hood systems. Required before opening and periodically thereafter under 527 CMR.

Required for all food service establishments in Massachusetts. Issued by the local Board of Health after passing a health inspection. Covers food handling, storage, preparation, and service. Must have at least one certified food protection manager (ServSafe or equivalent) on staff.

Massachusetts requires at least one certified food protection manager per food establishment. Certification obtained by passing an ANSI-accredited exam such as ServSafe. Valid for 5 years per 105 CMR 590.

Required by most Massachusetts municipalities before installing exterior business signage. Local zoning bylaws regulate sign size, type, height, illumination, and placement.

Required for all businesses making retail sales of tangible personal property or taxable services. Massachusetts sales tax rate is 6.25%. Registration is free through MassTaxConnect. Meals tax of 6.25% applies to restaurant sales, with an optional additional 0.75% local option meals tax.

All Massachusetts employers must register to withhold state income tax from employee wages. Registration completed through MassTaxConnect.

Required when a proposed business use needs special approval from the local zoning board. Common triggers include alcohol service, outdoor seating, late-night hours, and entertainment. Requires public hearing under MGL c.40A.

Verifies that the proposed business use is permitted in the applicable zoning district. Required before obtaining a building permit or Certificate of Occupancy. Governed by MGL c.40A.